2009 Report
And What We Can Do About It
Overview Introduction from the President and CEO .................................................................................................... 2 A Message from Philippe Cousteau .............................................................................................................. 3 Executive Summary and Key Findings . ......................................................................................................... 4 Results from the 2008 International Coastal Cleanup ................................................................................ 6 Participating Countries Map .......................................................................................................................... 7 Marine Debris Kills ....................................................................................................................................... 14 Climate Change and Marine Debris ............................................................................................................ 18 Take Action: Start a Sea Change .................................................................................................................. 22 International Coastal Cleanup Sponsoring Partners .................................................................................. 26 International Coastal Cleanup Volunteer Coordinators and Sponsors ...................................................... 28
The Marine Debris Index Methodology and Research Notes .............................................................................................................. 34 Marine Debris Breakdown by Countries and Locations ............................................................................. 35 Participation by Countries and Locations .................................................................................................. 42 Marine Debris Breakdown by US States . .................................................................................................... 43 Participation by US States . ......................................................................................................................... 46 Acknowledgments and Photo Credits ........................................................................................................ 48 Sources ............................................................................................................................... Inside Back Cover
Ocean Conservancy
The International Coastal Cleanup
Ocean Conservancy promotes healthy and diverse ocean ecosystems and opposes practices that threaten ocean life and human life. Through research, education, and science-based advocacy, Ocean Conservancy informs, inspires, and empowers people to speak and act on behalf of the ocean. In all its work, Ocean Conservancy strives to be the world’s foremost advocate for the ocean.
In partnership with volunteer organizations and individuals across the globe, Ocean Conservancy’s International Coastal Cleanup engages people to remove trash and debris from the world’s beaches and waterways, to identify the sources of debris, and to change the behaviors that cause marine debris in the first place.
Cover photograph Antarctic fur seal entangled in abandoned fishing net, South Georgia Island, southern Atlantic Ocean. © by Ocean Conservancy All rights reserved. ISBN: 978-0-615-27056-2
Mozambique
We are all connected to the ocean. The disheartening amount of trash afloat in the sea, littering beaches, and piling up on the sea floor affects the health of Earth’s life support system, the ocean, and all the living things in it. Marine debris is more than a blemish on Nature, it is a potential threat to our food supply, to tourism and economic activity, to marine wildlife and ecosystems, and to our personal health. It even relates to the impacts of climate change. But there’s good news: Marine debris is a problem we can readily solve.
01
IntroductIon
I
t’s time we realize that all of us —
what they found. This information, amassed over the 23-year
whether we are among the large
history of the Cleanup, has been integral both to raising
portion of the world population
awareness about this global problem and implementing policy
inhabiting the coast, or those living
changes to address it.
thousands of miles inland — are intimately connected to the ocean. The ocean
The ocean covers more than two-thirds of our planet.
is Earth’s life support system. It drives
It provides 99 percent of the living space on Earth. Since
and moderates our climate. It creates
the beginning of human history, we have believed it to be
the weather (both good and bad). It is
infinite, but it is not. We simply cannot continue to put our
the ultimate source of the water we drink
trash in the ocean. The evidence turns up every day in dead
and much of the oxygen we breathe. It directly feeds millions
and injured marine life, littered beaches that discourage
of people. It also absorbs much of the air and water pollution
tourists, and choked ocean ecosystems.
generated by a world population approaching seven billion. But our ocean is sick, and our actions have made it so.
To keep the circle of life intact and healthy, we must act now.
We must recognize that the ocean is inextricably connected
This special report highlights the ways in which trash impacts
to us; when we allow trash to get into the ocean, we directly
ocean health, and offers solutions based on that information
affect its health. And that, as you’ll learn in this report,
that every one of us can implement every day to ensure
may affect our own health and well-being.
a healthy ocean for the future. The report is a global snapshot that shows how we are part of the marine debris picture—and
In spite of all of the wonderful life-giving benefits provided
key to the solution.
by the ocean, most people don’t yet understand what’s really at stake. All of these ocean benefits—indeed, the future
Please read the Take Action section in this report, and visit
of life on Earth—are threatened by climate change and its
www.oceanconservancy.org on a regular basis, to find out
direct impact on the ocean, the land, and humanity. As we
what you can do to make a difference, including joining us
work to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, we must also
on September 19, 2009, at the 24th annual International
find ways to improve ocean health. We must make the ocean
Coastal Cleanup.
more resilient to the negative impacts already set in motion by excess carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and seawater.
For the ocean,
Tackling the major pollution problem of marine debris is a sure-fire way to make an immediate change for the better. I’m happy to report that awareness of ocean connections is growing, as shown by exploding participation in Ocean Conservancy’s International Coastal Cleanup. In September 2008, from the landlocked state of Nebraska in the United States to countries with long ocean borders like Mozambique, 390,000 people in 104 countries and locations—each concerned about the fate of our planet—walked riverbanks, lake shores, and beaches picking up trash. Among them were more than 10,600 divers and more than 1,200 boaters. These volunteers not only cleaned up trash, but logged data about
02
VIkkI SpruIll President and CEO, Ocean Conservancy
A MessAge FroM
I
grew up with the ocean. Sitting with
This report is a reminder that our own carelessness and
my grandfather and listening to his
indifference is proving deadly for our ocean’s inhabitants.
life’s stories—hearing the urgency
Offered here on these pages are more than mere facts and
in his voice—being inspired by the
figures. The time for action is now, and true change will require
passion that he had for taking action
taking a bold and courageous stand. There are solutions that
for our water planet. The oceans are the
everyone, everywhere in the world, can adopt and join in.
life support system of this planet. They
Most of them are quite simple: throw your trash in the proper
are in peril, and it is critical that we all
receptacles; opt for reusable bags at the grocery store; eat only
know we have a responsibility to protect
sustainably caught fish; recycle. Regardless, whatever you
and restore the oceans because everything
choose to do to help the ocean, the most important thing is to
we do makes a difference, all of our choices have consequences.
do something, to not only be ardent advocates of conservation but also its most active participants.
The preservationist John Muir said it best, I believe: “When one tugs at a single thing in nature, he finds it attached to
The time for sea change has come. Each of us has a personal
the rest of the world.”
responsibility when it comes to the health of the ocean. While the challenges we face may seem overwhelming, I am a firm
Building on my grandfather’s and father’s legacy, I dedicate
believer that together we can build the sustainable future
my work to the ocean as CEO of EarthEcho International
of our dreams. Each of us alone. All of us together. Making
and as an Ocean Conservancy board member. Empowering
a positive difference.
every individual to take action for a healthy and abundant planet, especially the ocean, is at the heart of what I do. Make no mistake; we live in a time of crisis for our oceans and the challenges facing them are myriad and daunting. Climate change, the greatest environmental challenge we face, starts with the ocean. Melting sea ice, seawater that is growing more acidic, rising sea levels, and extreme
phIlIppe couSteau President and CEO, EarthEcho International Board Member, Ocean Conservancy
weather events are affecting marine life and coastal communities right now as you read this, not tomorrow or next year or decades from now. Removing marine debris is one way we can all take action to help the ocean adapt and become stronger in the face of climate change. But the problem of marine debris goes deeper still. While climate change and other stressors are taking a toll, trash layers the ocean floor, floats in our waterways, and harms and kills ocean wildlife, further weakening the system.
03
International Coastal Cleanup
According to the United Nations Environment Programme, “Marine litter is one of the most pervasive and solvable pollution problems plaguing the world’s ocean and waterways.”
Litter can travel to the ocean from many miles inland,
in packaging and other technologies as well as expanded
blown on the wind or carried along by rivers and streams.
recycling efforts in communities large and small.
We are all responsible, from beachgoers to oil-rig workers and fishermen, for cigarette butts, food wrappers, bottles, and bags in the water. Overflowing sewage systems and storm drains add to the burden by ferrying trash from rural roads and city streets to the sea. And, despite national and international regulations against dumping, some people on boats still drop trash directly into the ocean. In recent years, organic materials that were once the most prevalent
Key Findings
1
A tidal wave of ocean debris is a major pollution problem of the 21st century. During the 2008
International Coastal Cleanup in September, nearly 400,000 volunteers picked up an astounding 6.8
million pounds of trash, trash that has a major impact
component of marine debris have been supplanted by
on ocean health. Toxic materials enter the food chain,
synthetics. Not only do items like packing straps, tarps, nets,
sharp items injure beachgoers, and accident-causing
and containers last for years, but also they are often highly
debris snarls boat propellers. Trash weakens economies,
buoyant, traveling thousands of miles on ocean currents.
sapping precious dollars from tourism and our seafood industries. And it harms individual species as well
Each year, Ocean Conservancy provides a compelling
as entire ecosystems, like coral reefs, that are essential
global snapshot of marine debris collected at sites all over
for the survival of marine life.
the world at the International Coastal Cleanup held the
2
third Saturday of every September. This year’s report, A Rising Tide of Ocean Debris, presents data recorded by nearly 400,000 volunteers in 104 countries and locations and 42 US states at the 23rd annual Cleanup.
Certain categories of debris show up more often in certain places. The Marine Debris Index is the only state-by-state, country-by-country measure of trash in our waterways and ocean. During
the 2008 Cleanup, volunteers collected 11,077 diapers
This report reveals the types and sources of debris and
in the Philippines, 19,504 fishing nets in the United
zeroes in on the startling impacts of ocean trash on wildlife
Kingdom, and 1,362,741 cigarette butts in the US. That’s
and its connection to the challenge of global climate change.
the kind of information that helps planners at the local,
Its recommendations provide a roadmap for eliminating
regional, national, and international levels tackle marine
marine debris altogether by reducing it at the source, chang-
debris effectively.
ing the behaviors that cause it, and supporting better policy.
3
The comprehensive body of data compiled each year at the Cleanup—the Marine Debris Index—has informed major legislation like the Marine Debris Research, Prevention, and Reduction Act of 2006, and inspired improvements
04
Of the 43 items tracked during the Cleanup, the top three items of trash found in 2008 were cigarette butts, plastic bags, and food wrappers/containers. All readily fall from human hands, and can be easily
contained if people dispose of them carefully.
4
they eat trash, and drown when they become entangled in
2
bags, ropes, and old fishing gear. The majority of entangled
most harmful. Bolstered by information about what these
animals found during the Cleanup were bound up by old
things are, where they originate, and their quantities, we can
fishing line. The loss of wildlife affects not only the beauty
work more efficiently and effectively to reduce litter at the
and health of the planet, but also countless local economies
source in addition to cleaning up what’s already out there.
Marine debris kills. Every year, thousands of marine mammals, sea turtles, seabirds, and other animals are sickened, injured, or killed because of trash in the ocean. Animals choke or become poisoned when
Fund increased research on the sources and impacts of marine debris. We need science-based solutions. Armed with knowledge, we can focus our attention on particular areas of greatest vulnerability and
target sources and types of marine debris that are proving the
based on the bounty of the sea.
5
Marine debris degrades ocean health and compromises its ability to adapt to climate change. Marine debris is yet another stress on an ocean already facing transformation due to
global climate change in the guise of rising sea levels,
the National Research Council recommended a goal of discharging zero waste into marine environments.
warming water, and changing ocean chemistry. As marine organisms and ecosystems struggle to adapt to climate change, we can improve their resilience and help to give them a fighting chance by eliminating the stresses caused by human impacts like trash in the ocean.
Recommendations Humans have created the marine debris problem, and humans must take responsibility for it. How big is the challenge? In 2008, a major report from the National Research Council titled Tackling Marine Debris in the 21st Century recommended a goal of discharging zero waste into marine environments. The Cleanup data tells us that we are putting huge quantities of dangerous items into the ocean. Based on the accumulated evidence put forth in this report and over the past 23 years, Ocean Conservancy recommends the following actions to end marine debris:
1
3 4 5
Reduce, reuse, recycle. Much of what winds up in the ocean wasn’t truly necessary in the first place. We can produce less packaging up front and cut back on debris through programs that encourage
positive changes in behavior such as recycling and the routine use of cloth grocery bags. Seek better technological solutions. Human ingenuity has already closed in on some of the breakthroughs we need to reduce marine litter, such as bottle designs that use less plastic and
environmentally friendly materials. Support the inclusion of comprehensive ocean management in all climate change initiatives. Citizens must vote for and actively support climate change policies that protect the ocean.
Government, for its part, must lead with policy changes that include strategies to minimize the negative impacts
Expand public and private partnerships to monitor
climate change has on the ocean and policies that reduce
and reduce marine debris. Ending marine debris
sources of marine debris.
requires everyone’s participation. More corporations
6
and private citizens have joined government,
foundations, and non-governmental organizations in the environmental arena and helped shape change as never before. We must find every opportunity to pull all stakeholders into solution scenarios.
Engage in community efforts like the International Coastal Cleanup. Events like the Cleanup really do make a difference, whether making the local beach or shoreline free of debris or raising awareness
and empowering individuals to support a healthier, more resilient ocean.
05
International Coastal Cleanup
The Marine Debris Index
South Africa
T
he International Coastal Cleanup is the world’s largest volunteer effort of its kind for the ocean. On one day in September 2008 during the 23rd annual Cleanup, 390,881 volunteers in 104
countries and locations around the world, as well as in 42 US states
and the District of Columbia, collected an astonishing 6.8 million pounds of debris, the equivalent of 17 pounds for every participant.
06
International Coastal Cleanup
And locations Argentina Aruba Australia Austria Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belgium Belize Bermuda Brazil British Virgin Islands Canada Cayman Islands Chile China Colombia Cook Islands Costa Rica Croatia
Cyprus Denmark Dominica Dominican Republic East Timor Ecuador Egypt Estonia Fiji Finland France French Polynesia Germany Ghana Greece Grenada Guam Guatemala Guyana Honduras Hong Kong
Hungary India Indonesia Iran Ireland Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jordan Kenya Kuwait Malaysia Maldives Malta Marshall Islands Mauritius Mexico Mozambique Netherlands Antilles Netherlands
New Zealand Nicaragua Nigeria Northern Mariana Islands Oman Palau Paraguay Philippines Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Republic of Korea Russia Saudi Arabia Seychelles Singapore Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands South Africa
Spain Sri Lanka St. Kitts and Nevis St. Vincent and the Grenadines Sweden Switzerland Taiwan Tanzania Thailand Trinidad and Tobago Turkey Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States US Virgin Islands Uruguay Vanuatu Venezuela Vietnam
07
International Coastal Cleanup
Mozambique
Top Ten Marine Debris Items
Source: Ocean Conservancy/2008 International Coastal Cleanup
Rank Debris Item
Philippines
Slogging through sand and mud along an estimated 17,000 miles of coastline, Cleanup volunteers bagged up
Number of Debris Items
Percentage of Total Debris Items
11,439,086 million pieces of trash, from cigarette butts to than 400 pounds of debris for every mile of beach cleaned.
grocery bags to fast-food wrappers. They removed more
1
Cigarettes/Cigarette Filters
3,216,991
28%
2
Bags (Plastic)
1,377,141
12%
3
Food Wrappers/Containers
942,620
8%
4
Caps, Lids
937,804
8%
They energetically scooped up trash along lakes, rivers,
5
Beverage Bottles (Plastic)
714,892
6%
streams, and ocean beaches, leaving debris-free shorelines
6
Bags (Paper)
530,607
5%
7
Straws, Stirrers
509,593
4%
land, and 10,600 divers (organized by the Project AWARE
8
Cups, Plates, Forks, Knives, Spoons
441,053
4%
Foundation), dove below the water’s surface to haul out
9
Beverage Bottles (Glass)
434,990
4%
Beverage Cans
401,412
4%
9,507,103
83%
11,439,086
100%
10
Top 10 Total Debris Items Total Debris Items Worldwide
From families and friends to students and scout troops, devoted volunteers banded together and got down to work.
in their wake. Aboard boats, 1,236 people collected 38,224 pounds of debris that could not be reached from
219,528 pounds. During the course of the Cleanup, a total of 6,485 sites, from beaches in South Korea to rivers and waterways in Kansas, were made pristine. Sadly, people everywhere keep dropping trash where it can reach the ocean, continuing their contributions to the tide of marine debris. That’s why the Cleanup is organized to generate data helpful in preventing the trash that pollutes the ocean. Each year, Cleanup volunteers tally every single item they recover, from drink-stirrers and light bulbs to
08
2009 Report
55-gallon industrial drums and household appliances. They log each item on standardized data cards by item
Worldwide Sources of Marine Debris
and source (see definitions on page 10), then submit the data to Ocean Conservancy for compilation and analysis. The resulting Marine Debris Index helps identify the sources of marine debris so it can be prevented in the first
M
al e d ic
/ Per
s o n al
H y giene
1%
5%
Oce
an /
Wa t er
place. (For the complete Index and methodology, including
wa yA
ing mp
al
io n t rea
s S
h o re lin
e&
Re
c
huge amounts of trash floating thousands of miles out at sea, and accumulations that smother life on the sea floor. To combat the unsightly and dangerous debris in our ocean, we need knowledge about exactly what we are putting out there. The Marine Debris Index paints
Activities, which accounted for 61 percent of all debris
that picture, item by item.
items and includes beverage bottles and cans along with food wrappers and containers. Clearly, the ways
Of the individual items tracked, cigarettes and cigarette
in which we dispose of these items after eating and
filters were the most prevalent found during the Cleanup,
drinking often lead to trash in the ocean. And while items
with 3,216,991 removed from beaches and inland
from Dumping may be fewer in number than others,
waterways; they accounted for more than twice the
55-gallon drums (2,144) containing toxic liquids like
number of any of the other 43 debris items tracked.
pesticides (or their residue) and medical syringes
Second on the list are plastic bags (1,377,141), which
(10,817) contribute significantly to ocean pollution as
accounted for one in ten items collected. The largest
well. A look back at the past five years of data shows that
overall source of debris was Shoreline and Recreational
the top ten debris items have remained the same over time,
Considering that the average person in the US generates more than four pounds of trash every day, the total amount of marine debris collected in the Cleanup could be equated to the daily trash of 1.5 million Americans.
09
Source: Ocean Conservancy/2008 International Coastal Cleanup
61%
e
iv i t Act
ie s
n g- r
absorb our refuse, now suffers from clogged shorelines,
Sm oki
impacts. The ocean, far from limitless in its ability to
i tie
the resilience of the ocean in the face of climate change
c ti v
marine debris also directly threatens wildlife and reduces
la t e dA
tourism and fisheries. As this report helps to demonstrate,
31%
11,439,086
Trash in the ocean is more than an eyesore—it impacts health) to local economies, especially those based on
2%
Total Debris Items Collected Worldwide
Better Data Means Better Decision-making everything from ocean health (and potentially human
ties Activi
Du
to view additional information.)
i tie s
pages 34 through 47; visit www.oceanconservancy.org
c t iv
state-by-state and country-by-country breakdowns, see
International Coastal Cleanup
Source: Ocean Conservancy/2008 International Coastal Cleanup
Sources of Marine Debris By Region Africa
North America
Central America
South America
Caribbean
Southeast Asia
Western Asia
Europe
Oceania
85.1%
53.1%
23.7%
71.2%
81.5%
79.6%
47.4%
57.3%
72.4%
Ocean/Waterway Activities
1.6%
4.9%
1.6%
5.9%
5.3%
7.3%
3.2%
29.0%
4.4%
Smoking-related Activities
9.0%
35.2%
74.0%
19.1%
9.8%
11.1%
47.0%
9.1%
19.7%
Dumping Activities
2.3%
2.1%
0.3%
2.4%
2.2%
1.1%
1.5%
2.7%
2.7%
Medical/Personal Hygiene
1.9%
4.7%
0.4%
1.4%
1.2%
0.9%
0.8%
2.0%
0.9%
Source Shoreline & Recreational Activities
and Shoreline and Recreational Activities held their position
trips, picnics, sports and recreation, and festivals.
as the top source of marine debris.
Litter washes into the ocean from streets, parking lots, and storm drains.
The marine debris problem is solvable, and often through relatively simple or existing measures. Armed with
• Ocean/Waterway Activities. People engaged in recre-
knowledge about the most prevalent components of marine
ational fishing and boating, commercial fishing, cargo/
debris, elected officials can make informed policy decisions,
military/cruise ship operations, and offshore industries
community leaders can tailor and expand recycling and
such as oil drilling contribute to marine debris.
other trash-reduction programs, corporate decision makers can improve technology and reduce packaging, and
• Smoking-related Activities. Careless disposal of cigarette
individuals can recycle, reuse, or properly dispose of trash
filters, cigar tips, lighters, and tobacco product packaging
to keep these items out of the ocean in the first place.
is common on both land and sea. • Dumping. Legal and illegal dumping of domestic and
The total weight of garbage collected (3,402 tons) matches the weight of 18 blue whales, the largest whale in the world.
industrial garbage, construction materials, or large household appliances puts big quantities of harmful items into the ocean. • Medical/Personal Hygiene. Items ranging from tampons and disposable diapers to syringes enter the water most often through sewer systems.
Sources of Marine Debris Where does all the trash in the ocean originate? Knowing the
Regional trends are yet another useful tool for local
answer to that question leads to better management plans
planners working to identify and manage sources of
and policies to stop it. To gain a more complete and useful
specific debris items. As the chart on this page shows, in
picture of marine debris, this report defines several sources
Africa, Shoreline and Recreational Activities was the largest
to help identify how specific items enter the ocean:
category, whereas in Central America, Smoking-related Activities dominated. Europe had a greater share of Ocean/
• Shoreline and Recreational Activities. The majority
Waterway Activities than other regions. North America had
of marine debris comes from land-based activities like
the largest portion of Medical/Personal Hygiene items,
eating fast food and discarding the wrappers, beach
like tampons and syringes, for a total of five percent,
10
2009 Report
Top Ten Participating Countries and Locations
Costa Rica
compared to less than two percent for other parts of the
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
United States
183,194
Philippines
37,728
Canada
34,320
Japan
13,887
Brazil
11,731
Mexico
9,543
Puerto Rico
8,637
Ecuador
8,379
South Africa
7,003
India
6,147
104 Countries and Locations
world. Differences in individual items could help target
Number of Volunteers
390,881
Source: Ocean Conservancy/2008 International Coastal Cleanup
Country Rank and Location
specific actions. For instance, in the Philippines volunteers
Participation In a remarkable act of solidarity and community, individuals working at the same time and with a shared sense of urgency bagged and recorded debris. The number of participating countries and locations jumped by more than 30 percent in 2008 over 2007, to 104—a powerful demonstration that awareness of the marine debris problem is surging around the globe. About half of the volunteers were outside of the US, where the Philippines, Canada, and Japan had the greatest volunteer turnout. Volunteers came from countries as large as India and Brazil as well as one of the world’s smallest nations, the island of Palau. The greatest turnout came from the US, where 183,194 volunteers collected 3,661,455 pounds of trash along an estimated 9,000 miles of shoreline. They worked in 42 states and the District of Columbia. California had the largest
Top Ten Participating US States Rank US State
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Number of Volunteers
California
73,691
Florida
32,696
North Carolina
18,330
New York
6,494
New Jersey
5,872
Virginia
5,710
Alabama
3,925
Texas
3,573
Illinois
3,227
Massachusetts
3,077
42 US States and District of Columbia
183,194
Source: Ocean Conservancy/2008 International Coastal Cleanup
found 11,077 disposable diapers.
cleanup in the US, with one out of five volunteers nationally.
Mark you calendar for the next International Coastal Cleanup on September 19, 2009. Visit www.coastalcleanup.org to sign up.
11
International Coastal Cleanup
Trash Moves From Land to Sea
Six degrees of impact
T
rash travels. A plastic bag carried from a store in Memphis, Tennessee, blows from a picnic table, washes down a storm drain to the river, and winds up being eaten by a sea turtle in the Gulf of Mexico (see photos at right). That’s why the International Coastal Cleanup takes place on lakes and inland waterways as well as the ocean’s shores. Data from the Cleanup confirms that the same items that litter the landscape show up on the ocean’s shores. Cigarettes/ cigarette filters were the number-one debris item removed from both coastal (2,447,482 butts) and inland (769,509 butts) cleanups. With 73 percent of volunteers in coastal areas, compared to just 27 percent inland, the International Coastal Cleanup hopes to enlist more volunteers to help clean up lakes and inland waterways. The Environmental Protection Agency, a key Cleanup partner since the start, understands the land-to-sea connection. The EPA-funded report National Marine Debris Monitoring Program: Final Program Report, Data Analysis and Summary estimates that in the US more than half of all marine debris originates from land-based activities.
1
2
3
4
5
6
Coastal vs. Inland Sources of Marine Debris Source: Ocean Conservancy/2008 International Coastal Cleanup
Source
Number of Coastal Debris Items
Number of Inland Debris Items
Total Number of Debris Items
Shoreline & Recreational Activities
4,974,667
2,014,605
6,989,272
Smoking-related Activities
2,653,844
882,057
3,535,901
Ocean/Waterway Activities
506,276
92,440
598,716
Dumping Activities
133,183
73,975
207,158
Medical/Personal Hygiene
68,476
39,563
108,039
8,336,446
3,102,640
11,439,086
Totals
12
2009 Report
E
S
LIF
NG
ILD LW TA TO
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
2
1
0
1
1
1
0
7
Birds
1
4
1
0
0
3
57
4
9
5
13
1
0
1
99
Fish
0
16
10
0
21
4
70
33
24
2
9
4
1
3
197
Invertebrates
0
12
4
1
35
1
12
24
11
4
9
3
4
2
122
Mammals
0
2
0
0
0
0
2
2
0
1
1
0
0
0
8
Reptiles
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
2
2
0
3
1
0
0
10
Total Debris Items
1
35
15
1
56
8
143
67
47
12
36
10
6
6
443
Dangers to Wildlife
Northwestern Hawaiian Islands
The trash collected during the 2008 Cleanup illustrates the scope of the hazards faced every single day by wildlife in the ocean. Marine debris not only entangles marine life, but injures and kills animals that eat it. Volunteers discovered 443 animals and birds entangled or trapped by marine debris, of which 268 were found alive and released. Fish, including sharks, stingrays, and seahorses, were the most prevalent (44 percent); volunteers found abandoned traps stuffed to the gills with doomed fish, and sharks tangled in rope or old nets. Invertebrates like octopuses, crabs, lobsters, and jellyfish were the second largest category, and birds came in third. Fishing-related items, including line, nets, rope, hooks, and crab/lobster/fish traps, accounted for the most entanglements: 69 percent, or three of every five animals found.
For the complete Marine Debris Index go to page 34.
13
Source: Ocean Conservancy/2008 International Coastal Cleanup
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Amphibians
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Marine Wildlife found Entangled in Marine Debris
International Coastal Cleanup
Caribbean
M
arine debris sickens, injures, and kills wildlife in and around waterways everywhere as ocean winds and currents circulate dangerous trash all across the world. Leaking chemical
drums, cast-off motor-oil bottles and paint cans, rusting cars and household appliances, and many other items we dump into the sea affect not only wildlife but also the ecosystems they depend on for food, shelter, and the rearing of young. And when toxic materials from marine debris get into the seafood supply they may compromise human health.
14
2009 Report
Trash travels thousands of miles in the ocean, touching
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the most remote places. To protect wildlife and ourselves, we have to stop marine debris at its source. Every year, thousands of marine mammals, sea turtles, seabirds, and other animals are injured or killed by encounters with dangerous items we’ve carelessly allowed to reach the ocean. A fatal attraction to items like plastic bags, cigarette butts, and discarded fishing line and gear poses great hazards to the health of marine life throughout the ocean. Many species, like Hawaiian monk seals (see photo on page 16) that number just 1,200 today, are already critically endangered, raising the stakes when it comes to the impacts of marine debris.
Ingesting Marine Debris: The Unhealthiest Diet Many birds, dolphins, seals, turtles, and fish eat things they shouldn’t—like bottle caps and toothbrushes. Few can regurgitate unhealthy items, resulting in a false sense of fullness that causes them to stop eating and slowly starve to death. Ingested trash can also cause choking, blockage of the digestive system, or toxic poisoning.
• Scientists recently found a dead sperm whale with 440 pounds of fishing gear in its stomach. • A study of northern fulmar seabirds found dead
Thousands of marine mammals, sea turtles, and seabirds are injured or killed because of encounters with dangerous items.
on Dutch beaches revealed that 98 percent had plastic in their stomachs. • In Florida, 12 stranded dolphins had fishing gear in their stomachs, mouths, or throats, and some had line tangled from their stomachs to their mouths.
Mounting Evidence: Every day, animals in the ocean suffer
Plastic, the most prevalent component of marine debris,
because of marine debris. A growing body of research has
poses hazards because it persists so long in the ocean,
raised the alarm, from studies of the tiniest phytoplankton
degrading into tinier and tinier bits that can be consumed
that have absorbed toxic materials from plastic to surveys
by the smallest marine life at the base of the food web.
of porpoises and whales drowned when discarded or
The National Research Council’s 2008 report Tackling
abandoned ropes or fishing nets entangle them underwater.
Marine Debris in the 21 st Century states that plastics
Sea turtles, of which six out of seven species are threatened
collect toxic compounds that then get into the bodies
or endangered, may mistake waterborne plastic bags and
of organisms that eat the plastic. These compounds may
balloons for jellyfish (a favorite food) and die when the plastic
travel through the food web, though the evidence on
chokes them or clogs their digestive systems. Seabirds,
human health effects thus far is inconclusive. Research
attracted to any small bits of trash, commonly consume
is needed to determine just how this process might
plastic pellets, bottle caps, string, and cigarette butts.
impact not only wildlife but also our food supply.
15
International Coastal Cleanup
Northwestern Hawaiian Islands
Plastic in the ocean includes not only whole or fragmented
discarded fishing nets and rope, becoming entangled.
consumer items, but also the pellets that are used to
Even mighty whales are no match for marine debris;
manufacture them. Plastic fragments and pellets can
they, too, get wrapped up in abandoned fishing lines,
be found on beaches worldwide. Measureable amounts
nets, and ropes floating in the water. Victims of lost
of small plastic debris have been found on each of the
fishing gear may drown immediately, or drag the debris
remote Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, home to the
around until they weaken and die.
critically endangered Hawaiian monk seal and more than a million seabirds. In one study, 87 percent of the
Debris doesn’t just affect animals on the move; those
plastic collected was plastic fragments and 11 percent
living anchored to the sea floor are also vulnerable. Tarps,
consisted of pre-production plastic pellets. The pellets
nets, tires, and other dangerous items, moved around
spill and travel to the ocean through sewer systems, rivers
by ocean currents, scrape, smother, and break delicate
and streams, and even on the wind.
sea fans, sponges, coral, and other life on the ocean floor or reefs. In one study of recovered derelict nets
Entanglement: A Treacherous Web We Weave
and the sea life they had collected, a fifth of the total
Every item we allow into the ocean adds to the dangerous
of coral the nets had broken off and scooped up.
weight of debris found in nets was attributed to pieces
marine debris obstacle course confronting wildlife. Curious seals poke their noses into food containers, yogurt cups,
Fishing nets abandoned in the water can travel the
or bottles, and then get stuck, which prevents them from
sea over many years, trapping significant numbers
eating or even breathing. Playful dolphins swirl around
of fish through a phenomenon known as “ghost fishing.”
16
2009 Report
Changing Behaviors that Cause Marine Debris
S
topping the flow of trash in the ocean is difficult in part because changing
human behavior is so difficult. But the right approach can make a difference: On a Florida fishing pier, a program launched by Ocean Conservancy and its partners is successfully changing actions that cause great harm to wildlife: Fishers are now recycling used fishing
Uruguay
line instead of discarding it where it can get into the water and kill marine animals. Volunteers talk directly with them to explain
Researchers off the coast of Newfoundland, for instance, retrieved ten lost nets that in six months had accumulated 20,000 cod, a species already on the brink of collapse because of overfishing. Lost fishing traps used to catch
the dangers and the option of recycling; collection bins on the pier make recycling easy. No single silver bullet can end the marine debris problem, but programs like
crabs, lobsters, and octopuses become fatal prisons.
this one offer hope. They can be replicated
Traps in one Japanese bay caught and killed twice as many
in many locations, rippling out across the
octopuses as commercial fishermen caught. In the
globe to change the behaviors that put trash
Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries, where the blue
in the water.
crab population has crashed, every crab lost means one step further away from recovery for a species that provides economic support for entire communities. Lost or cast-off fishing gear also has indirect impacts on
species in an ecosystem can critically affect the food supply
wildlife when it transports species to ecosystems where they
and interactions between predators and prey.
don’t belong. In 2004, scientists reported the first known case of the Asian sea anemone colonizing the Hawaiian
While these impacts may seem daunting, the fact remains
Islands; abandoned fishing gear likely gave the anemone
that marine debris is a problem we can manage if we all
a ride. The impacts of these particular hitch-hikers are yet
take part in the solutions. Eliminating marine debris would
to be discovered, but unwelcome transplants like them can
save the lives of countless ocean animals and countless
destroy habitat and introduce diseases. The arrival of a new
dollars lost in our tourism and fishing industries.
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International Coastal Cleanup
And Marine Debris
Arctic
M
arine debris is yet another stress on an ocean already beleaguered by many other human-caused stresses including coastal development, pollution, overfishing, and now climate
change. As the engine that drives our planet’s climate, the ocean is on the front lines of climate change. It absorbs half of the carbon dioxide (CO2) we’ve pumped into the sky from the burning of fossil fuels and most of the extra heat produced by the greenhouse effect. Indeed, the ocean is the unsung hero in this battle. But it’s also a most vulnerable victim.
18
We are already seeing the effects of climate change: Melting ice, the acidification of ocean water, rising sea levels, and extreme weather events are affecting marine life and coastal communities right now. Even if we were to stop all CO2 emissions today, we would not escape climate change impacts set in motion from excess CO2 already
Climate Change Policy: Advancing Adaptation
S
cientists tell us that to avoid severe impacts from climate change, we need to keep the concentration
in the atmosphere—and in the ocean. The reality is that
of CO 2 in the atmosphere below 350 parts per million
the concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere has risen by 35
(ppm)—but the level is already more than 385 ppm and
percent in the last 175 years, and the increase is accelerating.
rising rapidly. Therefore, energy policy reform that leads to the immediate and substantial reduction of greenhouse
The added burden of climate change on top of other
gas emissions must be the cornerstone of legislative efforts
escalating stressors is creating a perfect storm of impacts
by the Congress and the Obama administration.
that threatens the future of ocean ecosystems and life. Marine debris is one of the straws that together could break the camel’s back—in this case, the ocean’s health.
A Sick, Stressed-out Ocean Needs to be Fully Resilient to Better Adapt to Climate Change
But reducing emissions is only part of the solution for an ocean that must adapt to changes already set in motion. As Ocean Conservancy President and CEO Vikki Spruill testified at the
By eliminating stresses including marine debris that
first-ever hearing on Capitol Hill
degrade the integrity and health of ocean ecosystems,
about the ocean’s role in climate
we can help give the ocean a fighting chance to adapt
change, many species will be
to the impacts of ocean climate change. A healthier
unable to adapt fully because of the unprecedented
ocean will be a more resilient ocean.
magnitude and speed of change. But we can make a difference. We need strong, solid laws in place to support
Think of the human body. When attacked by disease, its resistance and ability to recover from other stresses and diseases is diminished. Just as a person with emphysema or pneumonia would be less likely than a healthy person to survive working in a coal mine, an ocean compromised by many ills is less likely to survive the challenges of climate change.
ocean management that builds the resilience of ocean systems and increases adaptation success. And that includes laws to eliminate marine debris, which so severely taxes the ocean and all the life in it. Adaptation requires funding; that cost could be met through the sale of carbon credits within the cap-and-trade system. Climate change, the greatest environmental challenge
In some places, reducing marine debris could be part
of our time, requires an enormous—and immediate—
of the cure, increasing the odds that some ocean animals
response. Fortunately, the new administration and Congress
and ecosystems can adapt. Human activities such as the
count climate change among their top priorities, and
dumping of trash and debris, the discharge of pollutants
awareness of the critical ocean-climate change connection
or excess fertilizers, overfishing, and destruction of habitats
is growing in the halls of government. Climate change
by coastal development all reduce the ocean’s resilience—its ability to resist and recover from stresses. From wildlife like endangered sea turtles and the Hawaiian monk seal to biologically-rich ecosystems like coral reefs, life in the ocean will be healthier, more resilient, and better able to adapt to climate change in the absence of debris-related impacts.
knows no boundaries, and the United States has an unequaled opportunity to lead global climate change policy, including at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen in December 2009, where we can boost the odds that we will all be able to adapt to a world made vastly different from the one we have known. For more information, including the Congressional testimony noted above, visit www.oceanconservancy.org.
International Coastal Cleanup
Hawaiian monk seals—one of the most critically endan-
Major ocean currents deposit more than 52 metric tons
gered marine animals in the world—inhabit the remote
of debris in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands every
Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. These animals already face
year, most of it lost or abandoned fishing gear. These
what could be life-and-death threats from climate change:
playful monk seals encounter discarded cups or other
Warming water may affect the fish, eels, and other life the
containers in the water, or on the beach, and wind up
seals rely on for food, and rising sea levels will ultimately
with trash stuck on their snouts, trash that keeps them
inundate the beaches where they rest, give birth, and raise
from feeding or even breathing. They explore old nets or
young. With only about 1,200 Hawaiian monk seals alive
cast-off fishing line, become entangled, and drown. Since
today and global climate change already closing in on their
1998, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
environment, it is critical that we address threats from
(NOAA) and partners have worked together to remove more
marine debris to help protect this fragile population.
than 100 metric tons of fishing gear and other marine debris from the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. Getting rid of dangerous debris helps keep this endangered species
Terms to KNow Global climate change The increase in carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases collecting in the atmosphere like a thickening blanket traps the sun’s heat and causes the planet to warm. Most of us have a pretty good understanding of CO2’s impact on the atmosphere and land, but many don’t yet realize that there are serious connections to the ocean, too, from warming water to changing ocean chemistry. mitigation Any human intervention that attempts to reduce the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere or ocean. Acidification An increase in the acidity of the ocean caused by the increased absorption of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. Atmospheric CO2 comes from
healthier in the face of climate impacts.
the fossil fuels we burn and changes in land management.
Ecosystems need help, too. Coral reefs have been called the rainforests of the sea. These extraordinary living systems cover just two-tenths of one percent of the ocean floor, yet
Adaptation (natural) The response of a biological or ecological system to environmental changes brought about by climate change.
are home to a quarter of all the ocean’s fish species. Coral reefs offer recreation to humans as well as food and shelter to fish. They also provide a buffer that protects many tropical coastlines during severe storms. But climate change has already exacted a toll: In the Caribbean, 80 percent of coral reefs have died because of changes brought about by warming water, excess nutrients washed into the ocean from
adaptation (social) Any response by humans to climate change in order to reduce the negative impacts on communities, society, and economies. ecological resilience A measure of how much stress an ecosystem can stand from pressures natural or manmade without undergoing fundamental changes that may be permanent and, from a human perspective, highly undesirable.
land, and overfishing. Scientists predict that if carbon emissions continue unabated, temperature rise and ocean acidification may lead to the death of most coral reefs worldwide during this century. If any reefs do survive, they will be the most resilient ones. It is our responsibility to ensure they are as healthy as possible to face the future. Marine debris compromises coral reef resilience by inflicting physical injury. Nets, plastic sheets, and other large forms of debris snag on coral reefs, breaking off living coral branches. Studies have revealed significant damage to delicate reefs by old fishing nets in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands and Australia. Piles of trash block sunlight essential to the health of living coral. And toxic materials leaching from trash in the water poison these ecosystems. By removing and preventing marine debris, we are giving reefs a fighting chance at survival and they, in return, will continue to provide us with physical and spiritual nourishment that are critical to our health and well-being.
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Courtesy of NOAA Marine Debris Program
The Great Pacific Garbage Patch Will Climate Change Create More Trash Dumps at Sea?
I
magine the open ocean, emblematic of Nature’s wild and spectacular beauty, dominated by trash. Unbelievable, right? Guess again. That ugly picture is actually the reality in a significant portion of the North Pacific Ocean, where four major currents define a large area known as the North Pacific Subtropical Gyre, a giant eddy of sorts. In one particular hot spot north of the Hawaiian Islands, floating debris concentrates where ocean currents and wind meet (see convergence zone on map). This dynamic area of floating trash— everything from toys, boots, and balloons to tiny plastic particles—shifts location seasonally. Though many people call this area the “Great Pacific Garbage Patch,” that’s something of a misnomer; while not a solid patch of trash, it does encompass a huge amount of debris over a wide swath of ocean.
Birds and animals across the region become entangled in this debris; their digestive tracts can become fatally clogged when they eat it. One researcher found that every one of 10,000 Laysan albatross chicks hatched in a year on nearby Kure Atoll had ingested plastic and other marine debris. The more trash we allow into the ocean, the more the concentration here grows year after year. The “Garbage Patch” is just one of several big accumulations of trash in the ocean. We don’t know how global climate change may affect them, but one possibility is that this one may shift closer to the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, carrying more debris towards their beaches. And that could mean more entanglements of marine life like the endangered Hawaiian monk seal.
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International Coastal Cleanup
Start A Sea Change
INDIA
M
arine debris doesn’t fall from the sky, it falls from human hands—and human hands have the power to stop it. Picking up trash at the Cleanup on one day each year is not
the whole answer, because trash in the ocean is an on-going, year-round problem. Working together, we can change behaviors that lead to trash in the ocean, we can change laws to better govern litter and ocean dumping, and we can change to more ocean-friendly products through new technologies. Working together, we can solve the marine debris problem.
22
2009 Report
are conservation coalitions drawn just from
2
the rolls of government, foundations, and
events like the Cleanup are helpful, they represent
nongovernmental organizations. Citizens and
only a snapshot of the debris problem. We need
especially corporations are demanding change
science-based solutions, and therefore more
as never before. The mandate for corporate
funding for scientific research that can help us
sustainability is being driven directly from the
focus our attention on areas of greatest vulnerability
boardroom, and progressive corporations are key
and target types of marine debris that are proving
to success. We must look for new and broader
most harmful. Research can also help us identify
opportunities to pull them into solution scenarios.
debris-reduction techniques that provide solutions
Recommendations
1
Expand public and private partnerships to monitor and reduce marine debris. No longer
Fund increased research on the sources and impacts of marine debris. Understanding the sources and impacts of marine debris is integral to finding solutions that work
on a permanent basis. While data from volunteer
for the long term. For instance, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Schnitzer Steel Hawaii Corporation, Covanta Energy, and other public and private organizations all support the “Nets-to-Energy” program in Hawaii, which collects and burns lost fishing gear to get it out of the ocean and turn it into electricity. The program has been replicated in New England, where every ton of gear collected provides enough electricity to heat a home for 25 days.
Citizens and corporations are demanding change as never before. The Keep America Beautiful Cigarette Litter Prevention Program, supported by funding from Philip Morris USA, an Altria Company, encourages smokers to change their behaviors and properly dispose of cigarette butts, cigar tips, and packaging —items that commonly wind up in the ocean now. And the Disney Vero Beach Resort in Florida stopped using plastic drinking straws (a top item found during the state’s Cleanups) to make beaches safer for nesting sea turtles and other wildlife. California
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International Coastal Cleanup
3
Reduce, reuse, recycle. The concept of going
instituted pay-as-you-throw programs; a number
green starts with living blue—making daily
of these communities have a recycling rate of 60
decisions with the ocean’s health in mind.
percent, as compared to just over 30 percent from
Behavioral changes like choosing products
non-pay-as-you-throw communities. The system
that use less packaging or taking reusable bags to
has economic rewards as well: In Fort Worth, Texas,
the grocery store are critical to keeping trash out of
92 percent of residents pay less for garbage disposal
the ocean. Just one small step repeated by everyone
than they did under the old system. The city also
can make a world of difference for ocean habitats
cut its waste management costs by 25 percent.
and wildlife ranging from the largest whales to the smallest sea snails.
Then there is the old-fashioned solution—use less stuff. People must be made aware of just
Consider recycling. As much as we hear about
how much waste material—all of it potential
it, not nearly enough people have dedicated
marine debris—we create in the wake of our
themselves to sorting their recyclables. A significant
daily existence. Simply learning to cut back
portion of trash picked up on beaches during the
on the amount of synthetic packaging we use
Cleanup could have been kept out of waterways
by refusing that plastic bag at the grocery store
and the ocean through recycling. The EPA says
or the foam sandwich carton at the take-out
the United States generates the equivalent of 4.5
counter can greatly reduce the sheer amount
pounds of solid waste per person per day, yet we
of stuff in our world.
recycle just 33.4 percent of it.
4
Reduce, reuse, recycle: The concept of going green starts with living blue.
Seek better technological solutions to debris management and reduction. Human ingenuity is an incredible thing. It has already led to some of the breakthroughs
we need to reduce dangerous marine litter. The ITW Hi-Cone company has not only reduced the amount of plastic used in their six-pack holders by 30 percent, but in the 1970s developed a photodegradable version; the rings float on the
The EPA also estimates that Americans use
water, and within days sunlight reduces their
more than 90 billion plastic bags a year, with just
strength by up to 75 percent so that if an animal
a fraction reaching recycling facilities. Many bags
gets entangled, it can break away. Depending
end up in the ocean as marine debris. When Ireland
on the season and intensity of the UV sunlight,
levied a fee on each plastic bag used by consumers,
within weeks these rings will become completely
single-use disposal bag consumption dropped by
brittle and crumble in a strong wind or upon
more than 90 percent.
contact. It took time, but by 1988 they were used throughout the United States, and worldwide by
Especially effective in encouraging recycling
1990. More recently, innovations like new bottle
and waste reduction are “pay-as-you-throw” trash
designs that use less material than traditional
pick-up programs that charge based on the amount
shapes have entered the scene.
of trash thrown away. People are motivated to reduce
24
what they put out for collection at the curb when
Biodegradable plastics under development include
their wallets are directly impacted. As of 2006,
those made from soy and corn. Polylactic acid (PLA)
more than 7,000 communities in 47 states have
can be processed on existing plastics equipment,
2009 Report
which is certainly attractive to industries with
include strategies to minimize the negative
billions invested in infrastructure. These plastics
impacts climate change has on the ocean.
biodegrade in water and soil, and compost readily.
See www.oceanconservancy.org/climatechange
Currently, bioplastics cost more and may have
for more information.
physical characteristics that don’t quite match those
aspects like price against hidden costs like waste
6
management, dead and injured animals, and
employees or individuals to take action and support
greenhouse gas emissions.
a healthier, more resilient ocean. For more informa-
of synthetics, but better versions that are stronger, more durable, and more versatile are under development. Where new technologies seem too expensive on first glance, we must weigh
Engage in community efforts like the International Coastal Cleanup. Events like the Cleanup really do make a difference, whether making the local beach or coastline
free of debris or raising awareness and empowering
tion and to sign up as a volunteer for the next International Coastal Cleanup on September 19,
Seek better technological solutions to debris management and reduction.
5
2009, visit www.coastalcleanup.org.
Russia
Support the inclusion of comprehensive ocean management in all climate change initiatives. The ocean is the engine that drives climate, and must be included
in all work to lessen climate change impacts. The reduction of greenhouse gas emissions
is not enough to protect the ocean; we need to reduce other human-caused stressors like marine debris, so ocean life has a better chance of adapting to climate change. People want to do the right thing, and policy, a powerful embodiment of public will, is an important tool for success. Let your elected officials know you want them to support legislation that will protect our ocean for the long term. Encourage legislators to put in place efforts to reduce marine debris. From hometown regulations on waste management to international laws on ocean dumping, the ocean needs protection. Citizens can actively support climate change policies that protect the ocean. Government, for its part, must lead with policy changes that
25
International Coastal Cleanup
Sponsoring Partners us strengthen our online campaigns, expand our media reach, and increase awareness about the Cleanup and the problem of marine debris. Coca-Cola also has developed a campaign within the company to encourage participation in the Cleanup. In 2008, Coca-Cola engaged over 50,000 people in 35 countries across their worldwide system—company associates, bottling partners, customers, and consumers—to help clear beaches and waterways of debris.
Costa Rica
The Coca-Cola Company is a driving force and a strong partner in starting a sea change.
The Coca-Cola Company
Walking the Talk
T
The Coca-Cola Company sets an excellent example
he Coca-Cola Company has a vision: a world
for the kinds of holistic solutions we need to battle
where their packaging is no longer seen as
marine debris. The company invests millions of
waste, but as a valuable resource for future
dollars annually to support the collection and recovery
use. The international giant is hard at work
of beverage packaging materials around the world,
finding ways to improve the sustainability of its
and they use the recycled packaging materials to
packaging across the entire lifecycle. Partnering
produce more sustainable bottles and cans. In 1991,
with the Cleanup fits within their plan to encourage
Coca-Cola was the first beverage company to use
collection efforts that bring used packaging back into
recycled plastic in their packaging. Since that time,
the recycling loop. This forward-thinking company
they’ve led the industry in the global use of recycled
recognizes that cleanups are only part of the solution;
PET content. The company will soon open the world’s
like Ocean Conservancy, Coca-Cola is dedicated to
largest bottle-to-bottle recycling plant in South
keeping litter out of the world’s waterways all year long.
Carolina to recycle even more bottles. They also have launched a line of clothing crafted from recycled
26
A Cleanup sponsor since 1995 and the lead sponsor
bottles; five recycled bottles go into each t-shirt, and
since 2005, Coca-Cola has not only stepped up its
the shirts help get out the recycling word by sporting
direct support, but also provides a number of in-kind
clever slogans like “I’m wearing post-consumer
contributions, including arranging for its strategic
waste.” All of this work sets a great example for the
thinkers to consult with Ocean Conservancy, helping
kinds of solutions we need to fight marine debris.
2009 Report
Bank of America
Investing in Climate Change Solutions
B
ank of America, which has supported the
Bank of America also supports Ocean Conservancy’s
International Coastal Cleanup since 1991,
Ocean Industries Initiative, which will help businesses
fully understands the ocean-climate change
whose operations impact the ocean reduce their
connection. A leader in sustainable business
greenhouse gas emissions; the bank provided seed
practices, Bank of America’s $20 billion, ten-year climate
money for a pilot program aimed at improving the
change initiative champions green economic growth
carbon footprint of the Gulf of Mexico shrimp fishery.
through lending, investment, products and services,
The success of the Cleanup is magnified by the
and operations. In addition to contributing funds to the
significant contributions of business partners like
Cleanup, the bank has embraced the chance to educate
Bank of America who provide not only critical funding
its associates about climate change and its impacts on
but also the leadership and know-how to help get the
the ocean; the volunteers of “Team Bank of America”
job done. And that’s an investment in ocean health
pitch in at Cleanup events across the United States
that will pay dividends for years to come.
and draw in members of the larger local community.
Here’s What our sponsors say about the cleanup The Coca-Cola Company “The Coca-Cola Company seeks out partners that not only address critical environmental issues but also look to develop solutions. This year, we mobilized over 50,000 volunteers from within our network to provide hands-on support in 35 countries as an active sponsor of the International Costal Cleanup.”
Philip Morris USA, an Altria Company “Philip Morris USA, an Altria Company, is committed to reducing the environmental impact of its business. We are proud to support Ocean Conservancy’s Cleanup through grants and volunteer activities that help reduce the amount of cigarette-butt litter in waterways.”
Bank of America “Bank of America is proud to partner with Ocean Conservancy to restore the vitality of our ocean and waterways. This year’s International Coastal Cleanup provided a tangible way to fight for a thriving ocean and address climate change for our associates, who volunteer in Cleanups around the country.”
Brunswick Public foundation “Boaters long have been at the forefront of keeping our ocean and waterways healthy, valuing such a precious resource. It is the Brunswick Foundation’s honor to support Ocean Conservancy’s efforts to encourage environmentally responsible behavior on the water.”
Dow “Dow is proud to have sponsored the Cleanup efforts for more than 20 years. We value our partnership with an organization like Ocean Conservancy that is dedicated to developing the global solutions and public education needed to change the behaviors that cause marine debris.” Glad “The Glad Products Company, a subsidiary of the Clorox Company, is proud to supply Cleanup volunteers with its trash bags to remove marine debris from their local communities and support the important work being done by Ocean Conservancy.”
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) “The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Marine Debris Program is proud to partner with Ocean Conservancy on the Cleanup. Our partnership goes beyond the Cleanup with our shared goal of eliminating marine debris that continues to have devastating impacts on marine life and habitat in the global environment.” Oracle “Oracle is proud to support the Cleanup to help preserve our beaches across the globe. Our partnership connects hundreds of Oracle employees with Cleanup projects that truly make a difference in the local community and reinforce our commitment to protecting the environment.”
The statements above recognize sponsoring partners who donate $50,000 or more to Ocean Conservancy to support the International Coastal Cleanup. For the complete list of sponsors, please see page 48.
International Coastal Cleanup
Volunteer Coordinators
and sponsors
Coordinators are the true “sea stars” of the Cleanup. They give their time and energy all year long, scouting out Cleanup sites, rallying volunteers, lining up sponsors, and organizing data collection. Their work is at the heart of this international movement. 2008 Cleanup Country Coordinators American Samoa Pelema Kolise American Samoa Environmental Protection Agency
Argentina Daniel Rolleri Asociación ReCrear
British Virgin Islands
Ecuador
Jasmine Bannis Conservation & Fisheries Department
Jaime Paredes Programa de Manejo de Recursos Costeros
Cambodia Koch Savath Ministry of Environment
Capt. Miguel Mosquera B., Sergio Bazan (Galapagos) Fundacion Ecologica Albatros
Canada
Egypt
Carla Schuk (British Columbia) Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Centre
Maha Youssry, Emad Adly Ghazala Hotels
Anita Knowles (Abaco) Friends of the Environment
Gay Wittrien (New Brunswick) The Green Network – ACAP Saint John
Greece
Renamae Symonette, Erika Gates (Grand Bahama Island) Bahamas Ministry of Tourism
David Boyce (Prince Edward Island) Southeast Environmental Association
Tanya Moss (Nassau) Dolphin Encounters
Kim Pisano Cayman Islands Tourism Association
Bangladesh
Chile
S. M. Muntasir Mamun Kewkradong
Christian Cid, Héctor Huerta DIRECTEMAR
Barbados
Colombia
Michael Thompson National Conservation Commission
Enriqueta Hawkins CORALINA
Osmond Harewood Caribbean Youth Environmental Network
Costa Rica
Belize
Cyprus
Bahamas
Hilberto Riverol The Scout Association of Belize
Bermuda Robyn Larkin Dolphin Quest
Brazil Leonardo Viana Laboratório de Mastozoologia e Manejo de Fauna
Cayman Islands
Giovanna Longhi Andreas Demetropoulos Cyprus Wildlife Society
Dominica Terry Raymond Dominica Youth Environment Organisation
Dominican Republic Hector Mota, Carolina Guisande Fundación Vida Azul
Constantinos Triantafillou HELMEPA
Grenada Dr. Clare Morrall St. George’s University
Guam Tom Quinata Guam Coastal Management Program
Guatemala Milthon Cárdenas, Marlon Lopez Eco Prodiver
Guyana Trevor Benn GuyberNet
Hong Kong Lisa Christensen Ecovision Asia Thierry Chan Green Council
India Captain Rajan Vir Indian Maritime Foundation
Indonesia Hani Taufik Yayasan JARI
28
2009 Report Israel
Peru
Turks and Caicos Islands
Ronen Alkalay Marine and Coastal Division – Ministry of the Environment
Erika V. Pariamachi Medina, Arturo E. Alfaro Medina VIDA – Instituto para la Proteccion del Medio Ambiente
Michelle Gardiner Cleanup TCI
Philippines
Ahmed Bin Byat, Ibrahim Al-Zubi Emirates Diving Association
Jamaica Carlette Falloon Jamaica Environmental Trust
Japan Yoshiko Ohkura, Azusa Kojima Japan Environmental Action Network Edo Heinrich-Sanchez, Naoko Kiyan (Ryukyu Islands, Okinawa) Okinawa O.C.E.A.N.
Kenya Fred Sewe Nairobi Keen Kleeners,Ltd.
Geronimo P. Reyes, Romeo B. Trono International Marinelife Alliance/Conservation International
Project AWARE Foundation Lauren Wiskerson, Jenny Miller Garmendia (Americas) Joanne Marston (Asia Pacific) Dominic Ziegler (Europe) Cher Platt, Suzanne Pleydell (International) Shuichi Kobayashi (Japan)
United Arab Emirates
United Kingdom Emma Snowden Marine Conservation Society
US Virgin Islands Marcia Taylor (St. Croix) University of the Virgin Islands – VIMAS Kristen Maize (St. John) Friends of Virgin Islands National Park
Malaysia
Puerto Rico
Lihla Noori (St. Thomas) University of the Virgin Islands – VIMAS
Jesse Siew, Maizura Mazlan The Body Shop West Malaysia
Alberto Martí Scuba Dogs Society
Venezuela
Malta
Republic of Korea
Vince Attard Nature Trust (Malta)
Sun Wook Hong Korea Marine Rescue Center
Ernesto Estevez, Janethe Gonzalez FUDENA
Mexico
Singapore
Alejandra López de Román (Tamaulipas) Club Regatas Corona, A.C.
N. Sivasothi, Angeline Tay Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research, NUS
Brady Wheatley (Baja) School for Field Studies
South Africa
Kenia Castaneda Nevarez (Sonora) Intercultural Center for the Study of Deserts and Oceans Lidia Silva Iniguez (Colima) Universidad de Colima
Netherlands Antilles Mabel Nava (Bonaire) Sea Turtle Conservation Bonaire Susan Hurrell (Saba) Saba Marine Park/Saba Hyperbaric Facility
John Kieser (Cape Town) Coastal Cleanup – South Africa Wayne Munger (KwaZulu-Natal) KwaZulu-Natal Wildlife
St. Kitts and Nevis Miriam Knorr (Nevis) Nevis Historical & Conservation Society Randolph Edmead, Andy Blanchette (St. Kitts) Department of Physical Planning and Environment
St. Lucia
Jadira Veen (St. Maarten) Sint Maarten Pride Foundation
Marcia Dolor Caribbean Youth Environment Network
Nicaragua
St. Vincent and The Grenadines
Sarah Otterstrom Paso Pacifico
Andrew Simmons JEMS Environmental Management Services
Nigeria
Taiwan
Prince Ene Baba-Owoh Clean-Up Nigeria
Ted Chang Kuroshio Ocean Education Foundation
Norway
Thailand
Alec Riedel International School of Stavanger
Vorasuntharosot Vorapong Pacific Plastics/Dow Chemicals
Panama
Trinidad and Tobago
Jenny Echeverria, Angel Cardenas Asociación Nacional para la Conservacion de la Naturaleza
Zakiya Uzoma-Wadada Caribbean Network for Integrated Rural Development
Vietnam Thu Hue Nguyen International Marine Alliance
2008 Cleanup Country and Location Sponsors Argentina YPF Asociacion Ribera Norte Daniel Eduardo Valdovinos Reserva del Pilar Prefectura La Plata Club Universotario Sede Punta Lara Fernando Aguiar
Bahamas (Nassau) Aquapure Water Bahamas Experience Tours and Travel Bahamas Waste Ltd. Caribbean Bottling Company – Coca-Cola Celebrations Party Supplies Dolphin Encounters Ltd. Island Wholesale Ltd. Ports International Nautilus Water T&K Trash Removal
Belize Bowen & Bowen Ltd. Protected Areas Conservation Trust (PACT) Augusto Quan Ltd. James Brodie & Co. Ltd. Jofius Ltd. Belize Audubon Society Belize Waste Control Ltd.
Turkey Filiz Uykusuz Turkish Marine Environment Protection Association
29
International Coastal Cleanup British Virgin Islands Conservation & Fisheries Department Ocean Conservancy Tico Wines & Spirits Road Town Wholesale Trading Ltd./Dasani Little Dix Bay/Rosewood Hotels & Resorts Charter Port BVI
Costa Rica The School for Field Studies
Dominica Nice Up Dominica Dominica Colgate Palmolive Dominica Solid Waste Management Cooperation Youth Development Division Jolly’s Pharmacy Fine Foods Inc. Springfield Trading Dominica Water & Sewage Company Ltd. O.D. Brisbane & Sons Ltd. Courts Dominica
Dominican Republic ARS-Palic Salud Leche Milex AFP Siembra Refrescos Nacionales Club Nautico Boca Chica La X-102 The One Movement Epigray Pubicis Domincana Nestle Domincana
Hong Kong CLSA National Geographic Channel Wallem Grosvenor Sunseeker Pure Roots
India Indian Maritime Foundation (Pune) Rotary Club of Pune Central (Pune) The Coca-Cola Co. (Andhra State) Eastern Water Aid (Gopalpur on Sea, Orissa) Netfish - Bhubaneshwar (Orissa) Pariavaraniya Vikas Kendra (Rajkot,Gujarat) People’s Action for Development (Tamil Nadu) Nokia India (Chennai) ABN Amro Bank (Mumbai) Programme of Environmental Awareness in Schools (Vishakhapatnam, Andhra State)
Jamaica Caribbean Environment Programme of UNEP Jamaica Broilers Jamaica Energy Partners Juici Patties National Outdoor Advertising NEM Insurance Co. Ltd. NMIA Airports Ltd. Pepsi Cola Jamaica Ltd. Tourism Enhancement Fund
30
Wisynco Group Limited
Japan (Japan Environment Action Network) Amway Nature Center e-machitown Co. Ltd. Greenstyle Japan NUS Co. Ltd. Keiyou Advance Distribution Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Co. Ltd and Smile Heart Club Netoff Inc. Philip Morris Japan, K.K. Sapporo Breweries Ltd. The Beverage Industry Environment Beautification Association Ei Publishing Co. Ltd. “Everblue”
Kenya Green Future Ltd. Kenya Data Networks Ltd. NAS Airport Services Mombasa Sunrise Apartments and Resort Club Sun N’ Sand Resort Pemba Channel Lodge (Shimoni) KWS Watamu Coca Cola Africa Nairobi Keen Kleeners Ltd. Plexus Management
St. Kitts and Nevis
Thailand (Krabi Province) Thomson Reuters Thailand Food Star Co. Ltd. Fujitsu Systems Business Ltd. Haad Thip Public Co. Ltd. Hewlett-Packard Ltd. Infonet Co. Ltd. Plan Creations Co. Ltd. Siam Commercial Bank Public Ltd. The Siam Cement Public Co. Ltd. Toyota Motor Thailand Co. Ltd. Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand The Siam Cement and Dow Chemical Group of Join Venture Companies (SCG-Dow Group) (Rayong Province) Star Petroleum Refining Co. Ltd. Synthetics Company Ltd. HMC Plymers Company Ltd. Bangkok Industrial Gas Company Ltd. PTT Public Company Ltd. PTT Aromatics and Refining PCL INEOS ABS (Thailand) Co. Ltd. Peroxythai Company Ltd. Tourism Authority of Thailand Bayer Thai Co. Ltd.
(Nevis) Best Buy Carib Brewery Coca-Cola Bottling Company (St. Kitts) Digicel Four Seasons Resort Island Life Pub Ram’s Supermarket Sunshine Shoppers Super Foods TDC
Trinidad and Tobago
Philippines
U.S. Virgin Islands
OSG Ship Management Manila Inc. Department of Environment and Natural Resources Quezon City Government Rotary Club of Batangas First Gas Power Corporation/First Generation Corporation Batangas Coastal Resources Management Foundation Chevron Philippines First Philippine Conservation Inc Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation San Miguel Corporation Coca Cola Bottlers Philippines Inc.
Puerto Rico Banco Santander Coca Cola Medalla Light T-Mobile Telemundo Compania de Turismo de Puerto Rico Compania de Parques Nacionales Departamento de Recursos Naturales El Nuevo Dia Autoridad de Desperdicios Solidos
Ministry of Planning, Housing and the Environment Atlantic LNG Trinidad Prestige Holdings Limited (KFC & Long John Silver) West Indian Tobacco Company Ltd. Piranha International Carib Glassworks Hand Arnold Blue Waters Bryden’s Marine Safety Equipment Sales & Service Ltd. (St. Croix) University of the Virgin Islands Virgin Island Waste Management Authority Virgin Islands Coastal Zone Management Division VI Friends of the National Park (St. John) Friends of the National Park University of the Virgin Islands – Virgin Islands Marine Advisory Service Department of Planning and Natural Resources – Coastal Zone Management Program Virgin Island Waste Management Authority Ocean Conservancy (St. Thomas) DPNR Coastal Zone Management Program US Power and Sail Squadron VI Waste Management Authority Diamonds International Rotary Club-East DPNR-Division of Enforcement VI Ecotours
2009 Report 2008 Cleanup US Coordinators Alabama Amy King (ADCNR), Spencer Ryan (PALS) ADCNR State Lands Division Coastal Section
Alaska Cachet Garret
Arizona Mary Lynn Kelly, Kellie Gutridge Arizona Clean & Beautiful
Volunteer Spotlight
Jane Polson, Nebraska
J
ane Polson, executive director of Keep Nebraska Beautiful, has served as her state’s Cleanup coordinator for nine years. Like many coordinators,
she came to the Cleanup by way of her full-time job, which includes working to eliminate marine debris. She admits that she has to educate people constantly about how the Cleanup isn’t just for coastlines, but for all
California
waterways, and has a ready answer when asked why a landlocked state
Eben Schwartz, Chris (Christiane) Parry California Coastal Commission
would participate: “You have recreational waters in every state, whether
Connecticut Kierran Broatch Save the Sound, a program of Connecticut Fund for the Environment
Delaware Jennifer Hall Delaware Department of Natural Resources & Environmental Control
District of Columbia Dawn Terrell
Florida Seth Godfrey Ocean Conservancy
Georgia Harold Harbert Department of Natural Resources
you’re in California or Nebraska. We have a lot of rivers and lakes we want to protect, and since we know that more than 50 percent of debris in ocean waters comes from inland states, we’re just as protective as coastal states.” Polson’s organization is a state affiliate of Keep America Beautiful; local affiliates across Nebraska serve as site coordinators and help recruit volunteers and run individual events. Polson downplays her role, and says the site coordinators and volunteers make the Cleanup happen: “I’m amazed that people continue year after year; it is such hard work. And people lead such busy lives that they are truly giving precious time. It says a lot about how much they care for the environment.” Polson says the international aspect has a powerful draw. “They know that people all around the world are doing the very same thing, and that’s a neat feeling, to know people everywhere are working for the same cause: the ocean.”
Hawaii Christine Woolaway Friends of Honolulu Parks & Recreation
Illinois
Massachusetts
Nevada
Frances Canonizado, Stephanie Smith Alliance for the Great Lakes
Kristin Uiterwyk, Dennis Leigh Urban Harbors Institute – Umass Boston
Indiana
Michigan
Madonna Dunbar Incline Village General Improvement District Waste Not Programs
Frances Canonizado Alliance for the Great Lakes
Jamie Cross Alliance for the Great Lakes
Kansas
Minnesota
Jennifer Clay
Sarah Erickson Great Lakes Aquarium
Louisiana Benjamin F. Goliwas Sr. HomePortNewOrleans.Org
Maine Theresa Torrent-Ellis Maine Coastal Program – Maine State Planning Office
Maryland Nadine Miller (Assateague) Assateague Coastal Trust
Mississippi
New Hampshire Jen Kennedy Blue Ocean Society for Marine Conservation
New Jersey Maureen Salvestrini Alliance for a Living Ocean
Lauren Thompson Mississippi Department of Marine Resources
Carl Guastaferro Clean Ocean Action
Montana
Mary Smith New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection
Karen McKinnon Helena Scuba
Nebraska Jane Polson Keep Nebraska Beautiful
New York Barbara Cohen, Don Reipe American Littoral Society
Geri Schlenoff (Baltimore)
31
International Coastal Cleanup South Carolina
Volunteer Spotlight
John Kieser, South Africa
J
ohn Kieser logged more than 18,000 miles driving across South Africa last year for Cleanup-related meetings, from the Orange River to the province of Kwazulu-Natal. His dedication to the job of Cleanup Coordinator began while he was working for the South African government. When John left the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism three years ago, the plastics and waste industries along with retail grocery chain Pick n Pay asked if he would make sure the Cleanup continued, both on the coast and inland—and so he has, with boundless enthusiasm needed for such a big job. Cape Town alone produces more that 3.5 million tons of waste annually, he says, and recycling is not yet widespread. “The beaches are in terrible shape from litter,” he observes. John enjoys the fact that the Cleanup revolves around a very positive atmosphere of community involvement. Restaurant owners who observed hard-working volunteers invited them in at day’s end for refreshments. When the ferry to Robben Island broke down, a local charter company stepped up to offer a large boat to transport volunteers, and they’re already onboard for next year. School children—for whom water pollution is part of the curriculum—flock to Cleanup sites every year. Companies sign up their entire staffs. And John points out that the Cleanup has influenced other exciting programs. Thirty-eight schools on the western Cape are involved in beach monitoring through an Adopt-a-Beach program, and John helps raise litter awareness at major sporting events like the annual Argus-Cape Town cycle tour. A government anti-poverty program pays poor people to clean up litter. But none of this progress could happen without the energy and ideas of coordinators like John.
North Carolina
Oregon
Judy Bolin North Carolina Big Sweep Statewide Headquarters
Pamela Sery SOLV
North Dakota
Pennsylvania
Randy Kraft SCUBA One
Leni Herr Verizon TelecomPioneers
Ohio
Project AWARE Foundation
Jill Woodyard, Linda Zmudzinski Ohio Lake Erie Commission
Lauren Wiskerson, Jenny Miller Garmendia (Americas)
Oklahoma
Rhode Island
Tom Rhodes Grand Divers Supply
Eugenia Marks, July Lewis Audubon Society of Rhode Island
32
Susan Ferris Hill (coastal) South Carolina Sea Grant Consortium Bill Marshall (inland) Land, Water and Conservation Division
South Dakota Dennis Lively High Plains Diving & Mick’s Scuba Center
Tennessee Michael Hughes
Texas Reneé Tuggle Texas General Land Office Texas Adopt-A-Beach Program
Utah Kristen Bonner The Living Planet Aquarium
Vermont James Ferro
Virginia Katie Register Clean Virginia Waterways – Longwood University
Washington Joan Hauser-Crowe
Wisconsin Kae DonLevy
2008 Cleanup US and District of Columbia Sponsors Alabama ADCNR State Lands, Coastal Section Alabama PALS Baldwin County Commission Bebo’s Car Wash ExxonMobil Honda Manufacturing of Alabama LLC Alabama Department of Transportation Alabama Gulf Coast CVB ALFA Baldwin EMC
Arizona Arizona Clean and Beautiful
California Presenting Sponsor: Whole Foods Market Whale Sponsor: Crystal Geyser Pelican Sponsor: Oracle See’s Candies KPMG Nature’s Path Organic Valley Natracare Aubrey Organics Peet’s Coffee & Tea
2009 Report California (Project Aware Foundation)
Indiana
Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel St. Regis Monarch Beach City of Dana Point Water Quality Costco Jack’s Surfboards Jack’s Restaurant Wyland Foundation McBeth Foundation
Lake Michigan Coastal Program NiSource Home Depot Northwestern Cutlery Whole Foods Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum Argo Tea Google Shaw’s Crabhouse Starbucks
Connecticut Patagonia of Westport Kayak for a Cause
Delaware Delmarva Power Energizer Personal Care Accomack County, Virginia Assateague Coastal Trust Assateague Island National Seashore – National Park Service Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge – US Fish & Wildlife Service Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company City of Salisbury, Maryland Clean Ocean Action Beach Sweeps
District of Columbia The Coca-Cola Company Whole Foods Gingko Gardens Frager’s Hardware Caribou Coffee (Logan Circle)
Florida Walt Disney World Publix Super Markets Charities 97X WSUN Tampa Bay
Georgia Georgia Power The Coca-Cola Company Oglethorpe Power Corporation Balch & Bingham LLP Environmental Planning Specialists Inc. Jones Day Kodak Mead Westvaco Sutherland
Illinois Brunswick Public Foundation ITW Hi-Cone The Field Foundation of Illinois Inc. Grand Victoria Foundation The Searle Funds at the Chicago Community Trust Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Home Depot Northwestern Cutlery Whole Foods Chicago Department of Environment-Chicago Conservation Corps Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum Argo Tea Google Indiana
Kansas Black & Veatch Corporate Woods, Overland Park, KS Crittenton Center Overland Park Department of Parks and Recreation
Maine Penmor Lithographers Ronn Orenstein Ocean Conservancy
Maryland The Coca-Cola Company (Hanover) Home Depot (Golden Ring Road, Rosedale) Wal-Mart (Golden Ring Road, Rodedale) Food Lion Supermarket (Hyde Park Rd., Essex) Sam’s Club of Timonium Whole Foods Market (Mt. Washington) State Farms Insurance Company Beacon Hill Sports (Cockeysville) Sue Holmes, 2nd to None, Baltimore B&T Hardware, Essex
Massachusetts Bank of America HMH Trade and Reference Publishers Weston Solutions Tronex Brand Cape Cod Potato Chips Garden Club of Hingham Quest Diagnostics
Michigan Michigan Department of Environmental Quality Coastal Management Program National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Frederick S. Upton Foundation Johnson Controls Care & Share Program Shaw and Betty Walker Foundation Consumers Energy Foundation Joe’s Sporting Goods of St. Paul, MN MN-DNR Adopt-a-River Program Garmin
Nebraska Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality New Jersey NYMEX Foundation Aveda United Teletech Financial Verizon Shop Rite Atlantic City Electric
New York City Environmental Fund/Hudson River Foundation Dreyfus Foundation National Grid Foundation Josh & Judy Weston NFW Foundation/Long Island Sound Futures Fund Con Edison Florida Power & Light Energy Altria New York City Department of Environmental Protection Richmond County Savings Foundation Patagonia Littauer Foundation Mannington Mills Quebec Labrador Foundation
North Carolina N.C. Department of Transportation Philip Morris USA Reynolds American Duke Power First Citizens Bank WRAL-TV 5 WGHP Fox 8 WLOS-TV 13 WNCT-TV 9 WWAY-TV 3
Pennsylvania Verizon TelecomPioneers LH Kinnard Chapter #7 Country Fair Erie Times – News in Education Lord Corporation Waste Management Inc. Gannon University Tyler Mountain Water Shaver’s Creek Environmental Center ClearWater Conservancy Blue Mountain Outfitters
Rhode Island ABC 6 Audubon Society of Rhode Island BJ’s Wholesale Club, Inc. Dunkin’ Donuts Fidelity Investments GEM Plumbing & Heating National Grid Rhode Island Bridge & Turnpike Authority Rhode Island Mobile Sportfishermen Washington Trust
Texas Shell Oil Company Rowan Companies, Inc. LyondellBasell ExxonMobil Halliburton
New York
33
International Coastal Cleanup
The Marine Debris Index The Marine Debris Index presents state-by-state and country-by-country data about marine debris collected and tallied by volunteers around the world on one day each September at the International Coastal Cleanup. Methodology and Research Notes Ocean Conservancy, in conjunction with its US and international volunteer coordinators, has collected data during the International Coastal Cleanup since 1986 within the US, and since 1989 internationally. From 1986 through 2000, Cleanup volunteers tallied debris items on standardized data cards developed and provided by Ocean Conservancy. During this time, debris was categorized by the type of material. In 2001, Ocean Conservancy revised and simplified the data card to include 42 specific debris items and groupings related to five debris-producing activities and sources. The new groupings identify the behavior associated with the debris’ presence. In 2008, Ocean Conservancy decided to tally paper and plastic bags separately for a total of 43 items listed. Totals for each site are mailed, emailed, and faxed to Ocean Conservancy, or are entered into Ocean Conservancy’s secure Online Data Collection and Reporting Tool by the Cleanup coordinator for the country, location, or US state. All data sent to Ocean Conservancy and not entered online by the coordinator are entered into the online tool by Ocean Conservancy staff. The result is a unique global, online database of debris information collected from Cleanup sites around the world.
Limitations of the Data Data are collected on a single day by volunteers—not by paid staff or researchers—in more than 6,485 sites and locations around the world. Ocean Conservancy produces data cards in six languages; there could be a language barrier for some volunteers. Data for pounds and miles are sometimes estimated by volunteers (see terminology). The data represented in this report are only what was shared with Ocean Conservancy, and totals could be higher if all locations reported in. Weather events can impact planned events and may decrease data return for a certain country, location, or US state.
Data Analysis Ocean Conservancy staff analyzes data in-house. Data are broken down by country, location (including islands), and US states using reports generated by the Online Data Collection and Reporting Tool. Country, location, and US state geographic designations are made using the CIA World Factbook, https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-worldfactbook/geos/uk.html. Data are also analyzed by regions, which are determined according to the United Nations Statistical Division, http:// unstats.un.org/unsd/methods/m49/m49regin.htm. A location identified in the Marine Debris Index is a geographic area that is governed by a country
Interpretation of the Data The collected data is a snapshot of what was removed from a certain location, on a certain day, by volunteers. The data provide the most comprehensive and measurable global snapshot of the world’s marine debris, as well as a breakdown of sources and debris items found in US states, countries, locations, and regions of the world. Due to the large sample and nature of the collection, the data provide a base for other studies. This valuable information is an effective tool for educating the public, business, industry, and government officials about the presence of marine debris and how and where to take specific actions.
34
but is located in a different geographic area than the governing country (for example, the Netherlands Antilles are governed by the Netherlands, but are located in a different geographic area than the governing country). These geographic designations do not imply Ocean Conservancy’s opinion of the legal status of any country, territory, or location (including islands), or concern the delimitation of its boundaries.
For terminology see page 47
Country and Location
Argentina
Aruba
Australia
Austria
Bahamas
Island (IF AVAILABLE)
Bahrain
Bangladesh
Nassau
Shoreline & Recreational Activities Bags (Paper)
50
88
396
9
1,245
77
604
Bags (Plastic)
180
79
1,158
31
2,630
126
407
5
5
82
0
281
11
44 397
Balloons Beverage Bottles (Plastic)
30
234
766
32
2,433
79
Beverage Bottles (Glass)
57
140
1,268
34
3,802
53
221
Beverage Cans
15
264
801
35
5,054
87
543
5
199
1,334
20
2,438
64
841
Caps, Lids Clothing, Shoes
10
42
231
11
1,259
4
159
Cups, Plates, Forks, Knives, Spoons
27
379
417
9
3,621
52
2,513
Food Wrappers/Containers
24
212
1,172
11
3,297
55
9,643
Pull Tabs
0
5
113
2
222
14
298
6-Pack Holders
4
10
45
3
161
0
0
Shotgun Shells/Wadding
0
0
22
0
116
0
0
71
91
847
1
1,768
85
1,587
0
10
48
11
864
0
53
478
1,758
8,700
209
29,191
707
17,310
23
Straws, Stirrers Toys Total
Ocean/Waterway Activities Bait Containers/Packaging
0
0
295
1
160
34
Bleach/Cleaner Bottles
0
14
11
2
303
29
9
Buoys/Floats
0
5
31
1
55
0
42
Crab/Lobster/Fish Traps
0
0
10
0
150
1
68
Crates
0
2
3
0
80
0
0
Fishing Line
0
22
917
3
167
6
53
Fishing Lures/Light Sticks
0
5
234
0
76
0
4
Fishing Nets
0
1
30
1
121
8
107
Light Bulbs/Tubes
0
0
7
0
63
0
12
Oil/Lube Bottles
0
6
3
0
329
16
17
Pallets
0
2
0
1
99
0
0
Plastic Sheeting/Tarps
0
0
18
0
673
3
172 118
Rope
0
15
177
3
424
17
Strapping Bands
0
6
22
10
140
3
16
Total
0
78
1,758
22
2,840
117
641
734
231
2,314
3
1,273
90
10,338
2
3
70
0
333
7
62
Smoking-Related Activities Cigarettes/Cigarette Filters Cigarette Lighters Cigar Tips
0
16
59
11
404
0
4
51
10
302
0
447
0
487
787
260
2,745
14
2,457
97
10,891
Appliances (Refrigerators, Washers, etc.)
1
0
15
0
219
0
0
Batteries
0
8
22
0
267
14
102 23
Tobacco Packaging/Wrappers Total
Dumping Activities
Building Materials
39
19
160
43
3,611
76
Cars/Car Parts
2
0
38
1
213
0
0
55-Gallon Drums
0
0
0
0
36
0
0
Tires
1
3
9
1
250
0
11
Total
43
30
244
45
4,596
90
136
3
24
38
0
388
0
38
Diapers
15
24
11
0
316
0
6
Syringes
0
2
10
0
51
0
31
Medical/Personal Hygiene Condoms
Tampons/Tampon Applicators Total
Marine Debris Item Totals
4
2
27
0
137
0
0
22
52
86
0
892
0
75
1,330
2,178
13,533
290
39,976
1,011
29,053
Barbados
Belgium
Belize
Bermuda
Brazil
British Virgin Islands
British Virgin Islands
British Virgin Islands
British Virgin Islands
Cooper Island
Tortola
Virgin Gorda
Total
102
0
2,411
257
11,444
0
160
0
160
434
67
7,118
397
24,373
10
871
0
881
12
25
456
17
786
0
6
0
6
414
248
6,364
339
11,486
10
3,384
24
3,418
189
120
2,278
829
6,429
30
1,628
24
1,682
78
116
1,167
283
10,243
20
1,109
0
1,129
1,234
25
4,612
854
16,391
10
995
2,000
3,005
69
1,628
121
2,296
10
249
40
299
54
3,156
392
9,911
0
1,233
202
1,435
300
122
1,838
554
10,023
0
1,048
60
1,108
8
67
369
27
1,747
0
98
0
98
77
204
147
50
2,940
10
50
60
120
0
0
19
3
60
0
0
0
0
219
107
1,233
441
9,347
0
396
30
426
60
28
841
45
1,223
0
40
0
40
3,510
1,252
33,637
4,609
118,699
100
11,267
2,440
13,807
31
6
47
13
138
0
28
24
52
109
29
140
20
1,316
0
29
0
29
119
2
298
28
526
5
56
20
81
2
1
29
0
104
0
0
4
4
56
8
35
12
105
0
16
0
16
49
25
48
76
402
0
12
202
214
7
3
157
5
276
0
10
42
52
149
2
17
5
151
0
6
60
66
13
8
69
5
207
0
11
0
11
50
15
343
25
634
0
115
18
133
112
11
19
3
2,071
0
6
50
56
13
10
73
41
412
0
4
80
84
520
31
110
163
800
0
263
40
303
66
11
110
36
245
0
66
120
186
1,296
162
1,495
432
7,387
5
622
660
1,287
30
219
669
6,109
17,565
0
994
0
994
16
46
113
63
379
0
13
50
63
81
98
170
51
645
0
0
0
0
11
224
195
190
1,348
0
19
0
19
138
587
1,147
6,413
19,937
0
1,026
50
1,076
10
1
39
5
282
0
19
10
29
18
51
77
16
446
0
8
2
10
168
105
142
101
1,997
0
380
0
380
38
22
85
19
311
0
54
0
54
5
0
1
0
42
0
2
0
2
35
48
118
4
255
0
12
2
14
274
227
462
145
3,333
0
475
14
489
36
3
86
12
597
0
21
0
21
14
6
215
24
539
0
11
8
19
17
0
117
2
153
0
2
12
14
3
24
25
8
182
0
2
8
10
70
33
443
46
1,471
0
36
28
64
5,288
2,261
37,184
11,645
150,827
105
13,426
3,192
16,723
MARINE DEBRIS BREAKDOWN BY COUNTRIES AND LOCATIONS (And Islands IF AVAILABLE)
139 244
35
Country and Location
Canada
Cayman Islands
Chile
China
Colombia
Cook Islands
Costa Rica
Island (IF AVAILABLE) Shoreline & Recreational Activities
MARINE DEBRIS BREAKDOWN BY COUNTRIES AND LOCATIONS (And Islands IF AVAILABLE)
Bags (Paper)
24,439
0
3,612
714
104
48
495
Bags (Plastic)
1,764
24
12,499
897
141
468
1,595
Balloons
5,758
0
231
24
2
0
39
Beverage Bottles (Plastic)
37,503
30
6,522
834
147
654
2,679
Beverage Bottles (Glass)
32,061
15
3,966
311
124
256
355
Beverage Cans
44,092
37
3,702
19
134
688
605
Caps, Lids
65,749
29
7,675
431
200
208
1,589
Clothing, Shoes
11,124
6
904
256
296
126
835
Cups, Plates, Forks, Knives, Spoons
42,219
41
1,835
145
48
612
1,657
106,911
17
7,243
1,412
614
1,312
1,552
10,800
0
399
189
1
0
120
6-Pack Holders
3,609
0
374
14
4
18
231
Shotgun Shells/Wadding
4,660
0
119
0
2
0
43
27,100
16
1,658
212
136
214
543
7,029
0
644
38
32
2
606
424,818
215
51,383
5,496
1,985
4,606
12,944
25
Food Wrappers/Containers Pull Tabs
Straws, Stirrers Toys Total
Ocean/Waterway Activities Bait Containers/Packaging
3,562
2
70
253
122
0
1,118
0
300
19
11
2
42
Buoys/Floats
3,276
0
416
104
2
0
26
Crab/Lobster/Fish Traps
1,597
0
61
10
0
2
3
Bleach/Cleaner Bottles
303
0
121
15
0
0
1
Fishing Line
Crates
3,267
14
248
26
102
2
25
Fishing Lures/Light Sticks
1,065
5
129
0
56
0
3
1,112
0
194
229
21
2
20
576
0
122
31
0
0
7
1,432
0
458
36
5
2
59
Fishing Nets Light Bulbs/Tubes Oil/Lube Bottles Pallets
342
0
187
64
0
0
8
4,376
0
624
64
8
0
14
21,742
2
2,279
137
102
20
58
4,546
0
290
26
0
6
6
48,314
23
5,499
1,014
429
36
297
323,706
0
18,048
10,872
5
226
1,001,337
3,863
0
804
118
0
26
1,057
Cigar Tips
15,405
0
5,415
12
0
0
23
Tobacco Packaging/Wrappers
16,568
0
3,249
112
15
64
1,336
359,542
0
27,516
11,114
20
316
1,003,753
Plastic Sheeting/Tarps Rope Strapping Bands Total
Smoking-Related Activities Cigarettes/Cigarette Filters Cigarette Lighters
Total
Dumping Activities Appliances (Refrigerators, Washers, etc.) Batteries Building Materials Cars/Car Parts 55-Gallon Drums
494
0
51
2
2
16
41
1,431
0
1,069
31
7
4
262
16,595
0
1,177
44
13
20
31
4,054
0
70
1
2
2
50
136
0
14
0
0
0
4
1,272
0
172
6
91
10
14
23,982
0
2,553
84
115
52
402
Condoms
2,939
0
660
9
4
2
85
Diapers
1,026
0
1,027
10
4
12
62
898
0
35
28
0
0
13
Tampons/Tampon Applicators
3,765
0
180
27
5
16
65
Total
8,628
0
1,902
74
13
30
225
865,284
238
88,853
17,782
2,562
5,040
1,017,621
Tires Total
Medical/Personal Hygiene
36
Syringes
Marine Debris Item Totals
Croatia
Cyprus
Denmark
Dominica
Dominican Republic
East Timor
Ecuador
Egypt
Estonia
40
124
0
755
5,327
14
414
142
0
70
1,175
1
2,198
10,754
38
1,354
1,409
10
3
6
0
67
1,096
0
53
12
0 30
156
520
1
9,461
31,473
62
850
1,389
87
280
7
1,116
6,631
18
358
661
10
19
468
4
2,017
4,056
18
194
786
20
3
1,034
0
560
36,931
68
455
681
0
2
62
1
2,688
7,650
37
125
153
2
0
84
6
2,585
27,632
80
225
264
0
17
558
0
1,582
6,674
168
315
314
10
0
17
0
50
631
6
68
189
0
31
67
0
175
1,320
2
131
0
2
0
31
6
27
395
2
0
0
0
7
970
0
856
7,547
4
82
203
2
8
56
0
490
2,089
2
6
15
4
443
5,452
26
24,627
150,206
519
4,630
6,218
90
0
20
0
162
755
12
4
41
0
0
82
0
4,278
2,510
2
64
251
0
5
15
0
196
452
2
32
51
0
0
1
0
60
371
0
1
5
0
1
26
0
6
400
0
7
7
0
59
50
0
406
344
2
112
914
2
6
264
0
129
486
0
20
4
0
3
32
0
189
385
8
157
208
0
1
2
0
33
799
0
3
30
0
2
25
0
531
1,888
4
130
33
0
1
1
0
29
166
2
95
0
0
11
7
2
348
1,113
4
24
52
0
13
83
4
261
652
12
478
95
0
5
24
0
71
520
8
55
26
0
107
632
6
6,699
10,841
56
1,182
1,717
2
400
1,777
0
149
4,927
152
95
1,274
10
9
89
0
33
681
14
21
57
0 0
50
4
0
48
1,063
20
1,035
134
87
357
0
79
695
2
318
176
4
546
2,227
0
309
7,366
188
1,469
1,641
14
1
2
0
158
320
0
7
2
0
7
56
2
116
468
2
6
33
0
3
159
0
1,377
808
6
40
249
20
0
0
2
428
478
2
4
22
0
0
1
0
24
191
2
7
2
0
5
17
0
165
330
2
39
25
2
16
235
4
2,268
2,595
14
103
333
22
4
33
0
297
844
0
61
3
0
21
72
0
214
1,000
0
48
12
0
1
111
0
52
571
0
10
4
0
5
32
0
194
343
0
19
8
0
31
248
0
757
2,758
0
138
27
0
1,143
8,794
36
34,660
173,766
777
7,522
9,936
128
Country and Location
Fiji
Finland
French Polynesia
France
Germany
Ghana
Greece
Island (IF AVAILABLE) Shoreline & Recreational Activities Bags (Paper)
102
45
0
18
0
2,290
2,859
Bags (Plastic)
890
67
43
13
245
3,047
2,430
5
43
0
0
78
15
419
Balloons Beverage Bottles (Plastic)
2,166
232
124
37
982
360
4,661
Beverage Bottles (Glass)
344
540
233
4
1,089
257
2,035
Beverage Cans
596
310
91
15
505
296
5,189
Caps, Lids
216
198
14
0
1,467
146
10,185
Clothing, Shoes
202
7
15
3
259
294
825
Cups, Plates, Forks, Knives, Spoons
217
13
17
13
494
102
1,413
Food Wrappers/Containers
112
18
22
28
874
580
1,998
5
0
22
0
164
7
2,518
Pull Tabs 6-Pack Holders
0
0
0
0
91
1
401
Shotgun Shells/Wadding
5
0
10
0
105
0
357
91
0
14
0
264
510
5,896
2
1
5
7
131
31
491
4,953
1,474
610
138
6,748
7,936
41,677
Straws, Stirrers Toys Total
Ocean/Waterway Activities Bait Containers/Packaging
12
0
10
7
188
0
289
Bleach/Cleaner Bottles
23
84
0
0
81
0
308
Buoys/Floats
14
182
2
3
71
33
171
9
3
9
0
16
0
62
2
0
2
0
36
0
326
76
0
34
15
337
8
1,061
Crab/Lobster/Fish Traps Crates Fishing Line
4
0
3
0
204
49
240
Fishing Nets
Fishing Lures/Light Sticks
13
0
10
2
8
32
599
Light Bulbs/Tubes
11
0
0
0
36
15
190
Oil/Lube Bottles
5
30
2
11
31
17
250
Pallets
2
0
1
2
16
0
219
Plastic Sheeting/Tarps
5
0
51
0
206
0
3,858
Rope
29
46
28
21
105
65
2,277
Strapping Bands
27
30
0
0
26
18
199
232
375
152
61
1,361
237
10,049
Cigarettes/Cigarette Filters
64
465
83
0
4,100
1
35,180
Cigarette Lighters
29
7
12
2
179
0
865
Total
Smoking-Related Activities
Cigar Tips Tobacco Packaging/Wrappers Total
4
0
0
9
113
0
28
22
30
17
0
1,164
0
1,026
119
502
112
11
5,556
1
37,099
Dumping Activities Appliances (Refrigerators, Washers, etc.)
20
4
2
0
8
5
79
Batteries
59
25
0
2
127
24
704
369
478
5
9
151
0
1,385
25
2
3
0
26
0
111
0
0
2
0
3
0
103
Tires
30
2
7
16
70
6
383
Total
503
511
19
27
385
35
2,765
Condoms
2
81
4
2
86
30
15
Diapers
8
0
1
0
63
10
197
Syringes
5
79
0
0
15
19
117
Tampons/Tampon Applicators
0
0
8
4
78
0
1
15
160
13
6
242
59
330
5,822
3,022
906
243
14,292
8,268
91,920
Building Materials Cars/Car Parts 55-Gallon Drums
Medical/Personal Hygiene
Total
Marine Debris Item Totals
Grenada
Guam
Guatemala
Guyana
Honduras
Hong Kong
Hungary
India
Indonesia
92
3,811
382
641
45
688
0
18,780
799
604
3,843
383
641
547
7,907
100
15,016
1,994
6
426
0
99
0
1,129
0
4,131
6 681
7,655
742
1,298
1,664
4,050
500
4,731
9,712
878
33
142
1,232
350
3,454
110
263
17,920
345
351
86
622
50
1,290
209
236
6,655
0
1,461
1,145
3,745
0
5,591
326 289
112
2,377
46
266
58
1,307
31
7,560
184
6,450
128
967
97
2,980
4
5,363
182
549
6,260
0
719
480
4,872
0
10,638
367
13
1,744
0
42
0
514
0
379
0
3
984
0
49
0
303
0
183
0
0
152
0
14
0
49
0
1,255
0
86
1,788
0
1,471
286
3,041
0
4,405
164
7
690
0
139
19
640
3
1,792
5
2,865
70,467
2,904
8,191
4,569
33,079
1,038
84,568
5,132
25
135
0
27
5
2,452
3
552
20
37
377
0
92
0
355
30
604
10
8
174
5
10
0
268
0
1,382
0
7
87
0
10
0
163
0
254
1
2
54
0
21
2
189
0
197
2
23
356
0
38
0
692
0
310
74
1
106
0
33
0
652
0
313
4
5
139
3
37
1
521
0
686
7
4
135
0
21
0
324
0
581
0
34
200
0
78
17
188
0
582
16
1
63
0
9
0
128
0
218
0
54
623
0
131
0
1,034
0
1,916
79
53
530
0
119
3
1,213
0
3,998
21
27
225
0
105
0
792
0
530
0
281
3,204
8
731
28
8,971
33
12,123
234
157
17,574
15
231
1,000
4,689
1,000
9,193
370
7
366
0
123
0
878
20
2,750
14
19
1,542
0
101
0
274
0
1,214
0
46
1,247
0
113
227
895
800
9,742
134
229
20,729
15
568
1,227
6,736
1,820
22,899
518
1
211
2
9
1
57
0
121
0
3
978
2
38
0
168
0
651
106
51
766
0
68
3
1,774
150
1,747
1
9
447
26
15
4
128
80
166
0
0
26
0
3
0
58
0
11
2
0
257
0
11
2
71
0
402
2
64
2,685
30
144
10
2,256
230
3,098
111
6
130
7
152
14
105
5
626
0 22
3
815
0
18
18
32
2
492
0
25
0
22
6
167
10
1,227
0
3
89
0
28
0
107
30
65
30
12
1,059
7
220
38
411
47
2,410
52
3,451
98,144
2,964
9,854
5,872
51,453
3,168
125,098
6,047
MARINE DEBRIS BREAKDOWN BY COUNTRIES AND LOCATIONS (And Islands IF AVAILABLE)
420 290
37
Country and Location
Ireland
Israel
Italy
Jamaica
Japan
Jordan
Kenya
Island (IF AVAILABLE) Shoreline & Recreational Activities Bags (Paper)
118
0
50
4,544
4,764
17
17,066
Bags (Plastic)
67
10
797
15,153
5,424
287
6,867
Balloons
25
0
30
227
661
2
1,956
Beverage Bottles (Plastic)
1,059
12
886
56,370
8,835
217
3,995
Beverage Bottles (Glass)
505
3
663
7,801
6,803
76
1,980
Beverage Cans
749
0
610
5,731
7,934
435
1,065
2,078
0
783
18,534
12,739
39
7,112
MARINE DEBRIS BREAKDOWN BY COUNTRIES AND LOCATIONS (And Islands IF AVAILABLE)
Caps, Lids Clothing, Shoes Cups, Plates, Forks, Knives, Spoons Food Wrappers/Containers
67
3
105
5,468
1,857
6
5,215
624
15
568
10,335
2,746
54
8,294
3,114
6
430
8,862
18,834
28
5,041
Pull Tabs
49
0
172
162
850
0
2,409
6-Pack Holders
66
0
60
60
78
2
605
Shotgun Shells/Wadding
11
0
69
17
137
0
1,004
323
30
238
3,492
3,256
16
1,095
36
8
171
651
1,152
4
1,613
8,891
87
5,632
137,407
76,070
1,183
65,317
1,075
Straws, Stirrers Toys Total
Ocean/Waterway Activities Bait Containers/Packaging
8
0
31
231
448
3
118
0
149
1,501
992
5
891
Buoys/Floats
9
0
19
72
10,632
1
1,037
Crab/Lobster/Fish Traps
0
0
24
95
456
5
576
Bleach/Cleaner Bottles
Crates Fishing Line Fishing Lures/Light Sticks Fishing Nets Light Bulbs/Tubes Oil/Lube Bottles Pallets Plastic Sheeting/Tarps Rope Strapping Bands Total
1
0
70
93
340
2
313
15
1
117
190
1,999
156
767
3
0
5
36
626
130
689
39
1
36
150
337
2
858 823
5
0
12
165
165
0
11
0
40
1,003
60
15
740
7
0
3
15
78
1
364
46
10
491
523
592
3
723
318
1
78
236
11,510
4
2,487
39
0
102
61
1,856
5
377
619
13
1,177
4,371
30,091
332
11,720
257
20
7,884
979
49,913
0
3,679
44
3
107
1,076
2,671
10
890
Smoking-Related Activities Cigarettes/Cigarette Filters Cigarette Lighters Cigar Tips
1
12
186
289
6,159
0
938
Tobacco Packaging/Wrappers
113
0
242
170
1,915
47
1,541
Total
415
35
8,419
2,514
60,658
57
7,048
Dumping Activities Appliances (Refrigerators, Washers, etc.)
6
0
173
102
315
0
370
Batteries
5
1
96
133
237
12
576
148
0
153
265
1,422
1
875
2
0
55
348
68
0
484
Building Materials Cars/Car Parts 55-Gallon Drums
2
0
11
15
66
2
182
Tires
8
6
108
315
292
13
594
171
7
596
1,178
2,400
28
3,081
10
0
49
723
76
0
2,176
Diapers
7
0
47
681
69
34
618
Syringes
14
0
10
101
137
0
426
Tampons/Tampon Applicators
15
0
44
56
104
27
707
Total
46
0
150
1,561
386
61
3,927
10,142
142
15,974
147,031
169,605
1,661
91,093
Total
Medical/Personal Hygiene Condoms
38
Marine Debris Item Totals
Kuwait
Malaysia
Maldives
Marshall Islands
Malta
Mauritius
Mexico
Mozambique
Netherlands Antilles Bonaire
120
856
0
75
10
5
4,929
274
121
40
3,727
163
77
31
20
44,438
207
391
0
844
11
6
0
0
1,470
0
16
32
2,046
245
275
290
0
54,011
262
223
16
880
159
306
92
50
22,614
193
363
7
504
207
427
311
90
7,664
241
92
11
794
243
84
88
0
48,785
287
263
2
579
85
30
240
0
7,606
113
52
1
688
131
182
31
10
25,265
44
433
7
1,343
169
84
21
10
18,381
82
272
0
68
0
17
1
0
4,088
36
29 10
0
21
2
6
1
0
4,209
47
0
15
0
0
0
0
135
0
2
0
704
97
61
1
0
10,952
2
235
3
121
10
45
15
5
2,256
20
31
239
13,190
1,522
1,675
1,132
190
256,803
1,808
2,533
0
71
37
25
1
0
413
7
6
0
149
49
10
12
0
3,831
28
32
0
561
13
2
11
0
615
1
9
2
40
0
6
0
0
186
0
2
0
18
0
18
4
0
342
12
7
1
132
237
60
7
20
1,351
17
34
0
27
24
45
3
2
243
0
12
0
95
16
0
0
3
736
18
6
2
141
19
36
0
1
326
1
21
0
158
50
49
0
0
2,420
40
29
0
15
4
4
0
0
494
0
21
0
342
140
16
0
0
1,282
1
45
1
761
144
20
30
0
4,186
145
42
0
89
169
12
5
0
697
0
7
6
2,599
902
303
73
26
17,122
270
273
11
3,333
125
1,100
1,004
5,000
30,747
321
57
5
319
7
0
0
1
1,163
16
88 204
0
675
19
3
44
0
5,369
10
0
390
34
15
57
0
2,322
50
5
16
4,717
185
1,118
1,105
5,001
39,601
397
354
0
36
53
3
0
0
191
3
0
1
53
76
16
0
0
492
8
1 30
0
308
586
97
4
0
1,865
9
0
36
0
11
0
0
524
3
9
0
2
4
1
0
0
80
0
2
0
21
19
38
1
5
413
0
19
1
456
738
166
5
5
3,565
23
61
0
25
0
0
0
15
867
13
2
1
89
20
3
0
0
2,468
18
18
0
20
6
0
0
5
586
0
12
0
11
3
0
0
0
421
11
4
1
145
29
3
0
20
4,342
42
36
263
21,107
3,376
3,265
2,315
5,242
321,433
2,540
3,257
Country and Location Island (IF AVAILABLE)
Netherlands Antilles
Netherlands Antilles
Netherlands Antilles
Netherlands Antilles
Curacao
St. Eustatius
St. Maarten
Total
Netherlands
New Zealand
Nicaragua
Shoreline & Recreational Activities Bags (Paper)
19
27
1,345
1,512
79
103
5,218
Bags (Plastic)
25
28
2,703
3,147
217
365
8,764
2
4
115
137
4
19
420
Beverage Bottles (Plastic)
47
76
3,111
3,457
429
243
11,971
Beverage Bottles (Glass)
211
11
4,840
5,425
244
501
4,532
Beverage Cans
80
2
2,447
2,621
465
282
1,072
Caps, Lids
40
443
3,744
4,490
150
824
10,136
Clothing, Shoes
40
18
755
865
28
89
2,248
Cups, Plates, Forks, Knives, Spoons
97
135
3,676
4,341
180
164
3,835
Food Wrappers/Containers
15
104
1,998
2,389
779
769
3,455
Pull Tabs
26
4
190
249
90
126
145
6-Pack Holders
15
0
190
215
36
2
289
0
8
3
13
0
18
47
13
113
1,536
1,897
55
163
5,910
3
11
156
201
86
28
1,023
633
984
26,809
30,959
2,842
3,696
59,065
Bait Containers/Packaging
5
0
42
53
4
9
177
Bleach/Cleaner Bottles
0
1
190
223
14
2
2,910
Buoys/Floats
0
11
37
57
3
1
518
Crab/Lobster/Fish Traps
0
0
11
13
4
4
4
Balloons
Shotgun Shells/Wadding Straws, Stirrers Toys Total
Ocean/Waterway Activities
Crates Fishing Line Fishing Lures/Light Sticks
0
0
15
22
1
1
14
357
16
15
422
23
119
224
14
2
17
45
3
38
0
Fishing Nets
4
9
36
55
2
3
100
Light Bulbs/Tubes
1
0
29
51
2
0
66
Oil/Lube Bottles
2
10
101
142
3
2
685
Pallets
0
0
64
85
4
0
0
Plastic Sheeting/Tarps
2
80
244
371
1
24
126 926
Rope Strapping Bands Total
9
257
283
591
23
16
12
8
44
71
32
13
141
406
394
1,128
2,201
119
232
5,891
123
5
2,183
2,368
418
1,194
2,098
0
9
118
215
34
14
779 1,632
Smoking-Related Activities Cigarettes/Cigarette Filters Cigarette Lighters Cigar Tips
0
1
581
786
4
94
10
0
111
126
115
36
290
133
15
2,993
3,495
571
1,338
4,799
Appliances (Refrigerators, Washers, etc.)
0
0
14
14
3
2
43
Batteries
1
2
39
43
13
15
18
Building Materials
5
8
275
318
139
57
229
Cars/Car Parts
1
2
49
61
14
4
101
55-Gallon Drums
0
0
3
5
4
0
1
Tires
8
3
10
40
12
5
73
Total
15
15
390
481
185
83
465
Condoms
2
1
240
245
11
12
176
Diapers
0
1
139
158
1
0
97
Syringes
0
1
3
16
3
2
183
Tampons/Tampon Applicators
0
1
94
99
1
1
131
Total
2
4
476
518
16
15
587
1,189
1,412
31,796
37,654
3,733
5,364
70,807
Tobacco Packaging/Wrappers Total
Dumping Activities
Medical/Personal Hygiene
Marine Debris Item Totals
Northern Mariana Islands
Nigeria
Oman
Palau
Paraguay
Philippines
Poland
Portugal
Puerto Rico
44,141
193
30
850
111
253,013
242
0
10,968
155,274
280
619
80
1,255
679,957
254
198
24,641
3,810
10
0
80
10
8,756
38
0
1,756
85,262
339
292
100
72
20,238
347
249
33,744
33,188
438
94
500
46
12,553
279
424
41,452
53,854
792
333
500
16
8,619
213
198
14,332
137,489
175
192
1,000
360
12,930
106
99
33,126
32
8
50
144
38,394
45
63
8,019
8,237
329
74
300
78
18,614
79
82
37,411
84,006
115
38
1,000
45
103,226
146
112
16,043
192,244
78
0
40
0
1,027
53
16
3,368
579
58
0
200
0
998
5
2
2,446
0
0
0
0
0
843
2
0
400
130,814
54
0
0
117
68,421
4
0
15,281
5,142
13
4
10
9
7,574
14
5
2,677
945,434
2,906
1,684
4,710
2,263
1,235,163
1,827
1,448
245,664
0
3
83
0
18
1,915
7
10
410
0
6
3
10
1
3,515
2
17
1,656
0
2
3
5
0
2,563
1
3
699
0
3
20
0
0
1,837
0
154
134 553
0
0
9
1
9
570
1
10
0
15
60
1
0
3,142
8
254
795
0
2
19
0
0
1,701
7
17
204
0
0
11
0
0
2,660
4
226
504
0
13
2
0
5
1,413
2
0
387
0
6
4
5
2
1,874
8
26
1,588
0
1
0
1
1
384
2
10
282
0
7
3
5
139
13,883
4
85
2,682 2,028
0
36
16
1
21
6,854
6
128
0
9
23
0
107
1,499
33
26
360
0
103
256
29
303
43,810
85
966
12,282
65,467
698
15
500
110
34,154
97
333
56,888
4,098
19
28
20
3
5,025
12
30
1,284 4,791
7,593
9
0
0
64
8,011
19
100
14,902
76
40
150
29
8,624
68
140
1,913
92,060
802
83
670
206
55,814
196
603
64,876
9
5
0
1
0
231
1
0
496
7,479
22
1
2
2
1,906
13
46
616
1,704
76
88
0
256
2,055
33
1
3,302
6,774
17
0
4
13
561
7
18
1,183
0
0
1
0
0
221
0
1
94
8,287
6
3
20
2
1,054
22
58
1,045
24,253
126
93
27
273
6,028
76
124
6,736
5,575
9
0
0
58
650
27
2
671
13,498
6
0
20
8
11,077
2
0
1,457
748
0
0
0
11
835
0
3
850
23
1
0
0
2
1,859
0
1
497
19,844
16
0
20
79
14,421
29
6
3,475
1,081,591
3,953
2,116
5,456
3,124
1,355,236
2,213
3,147
333,033
MARINE DEBRIS BREAKDOWN BY COUNTRIES AND LOCATIONS (And Islands IF AVAILABLE)
11,394
39
Country and Location
Republic of Korea
Qatar
Russia
Saudi Arabia
Singapore
Slovenia
Solomon Islands
Island (IF AVAILABLE) Shoreline & Recreational Activities Bags (Paper)
1,147
5
85
83
1,177
0
18
Bags (Plastic)
1,647
7,927
92
254
26,006
59
166
146
174
2
0
340
0
0
1,145
4,410
58
242
4,932
25
130
676
3,652
26
346
2,726
8
79
Beverage Cans
1,264
3,012
37
900
930
19
629
Caps, Lids
1,075
3,765
187
180
3,557
0
145 18
Balloons Beverage Bottles (Plastic)
MARINE DEBRIS BREAKDOWN BY COUNTRIES AND LOCATIONS (And Islands IF AVAILABLE)
Beverage Bottles (Glass)
Clothing, Shoes
348
1,057
31
41
1,991
8
1,080
1,887
75
398
3,319
20
0
Food Wrappers/Containers
611
3,257
93
118
12,932
30
112
Pull Tabs
299
129
0
112
286
10
0
6-Pack Holders
40
927
0
0
36
0
0
Shotgun Shells/Wadding
75
45
0
0
229
0
0
Straws, Stirrers
463
1,579
11
21
9,428
5
0
Toys
124
405
9
45
1,037
5
0
10,140
32,231
706
2,740
68,926
189
1,297
Bait Containers/Packaging
56
999
4
3
241
0
0
Bleach/Cleaner Bottles
93
170
0
4
244
3
3
Buoys/Floats
28
6,107
4
2
117
0
0
Crab/Lobster/Fish Traps
37
476
0
1
213
0
0 0
Cups, Plates, Forks, Knives, Spoons
Total
Ocean/Waterway Activities
Crates
5
309
22
1
54
1
Fishing Line
83
1,245
1
19
276
1
0
Fishing Lures/Light Sticks
37
1,091
0
11
285
2
0
Fishing Nets
46
1,060
0
1
305
3
0 0
Light Bulbs/Tubes
23
149
2
0
267
0
Oil/Lube Bottles
55
325
0
5
123
2
0
Pallets
15
1,180
0
2
54
0
0
Plastic Sheeting/Tarps
50
1,598
35
0
4,275
3
6
129
2,891
84
4
1,688
2
5
28
2,127
2
6
846
4
0
685
19,727
154
59
8,988
21
14
1,107
15,703
828
238
18,304
0
26
91
855
17
19
704
2
13
Rope Strapping Bands Total
Smoking-Related Activities Cigarettes/Cigarette Filters Cigarette Lighters Cigar Tips
202
298
14
0
1,360
17
0
Tobacco Packaging/Wrappers
201
1,159
36
89
355
6
52
1,601
18,015
895
346
20,723
25
91
Total
Dumping Activities Appliances (Refrigerators, Washers, etc.)
10
164
1
0
114
0
0
Batteries
57
361
0
3
455
2
23
100
917
23
12
1,263
20
0
36
95
0
0
134
4
0
4
90
0
5
21
0
0
Tires
20
243
0
18
95
1
0
Total
227
1,870
24
38
2,082
27
23
26
31
1
3
101
0
0
Diapers
151
49
1
19
57
0
11
Syringes
32
27
3
0
36
0
1
8
11
0
0
83
0
0
217
118
5
22
277
0
12
12,870
71,961
1,784
3,205
100,996
262
1,437
Building Materials Cars/Car Parts 55-Gallon Drums
Medical/Personal Hygiene Condoms
40
Tampons/Tampon Applicators Total
Marine Debris Item Totals
South Africa
Spain
Sri Lanka
St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Sweden
Switzerland
Tanzania
Thailand
Trinidad and Tobago
Grenadines
488
0
4,115
575
5
0
0
1,914
2,431
2,859
2,722
10,270
2,605
39
134
2,300
3,198
6,549
60
94
352
44
1
15
0
379
74
6,035
1,221
5,649
2,185
18
775
575
3,216
15,129
2,948
463
2,091
2,483
23
663
78
3,310
7,604
1,464
824
520
2,143
44
246
245
2,555
2,504
10,564
898
3,103
889
25
218
880
5,074
12,822
638
171
3,346
465
11
50
56
9,054
2,075
1,058
188
491
910
82
186
0
2,018
10,448
2,651
1,108
4,830
990
36
312
1,250
16,763
7,573
96
579
116
55
2
13
20
270
333 119
61
216
183
34
0
3
0
9
83
5
153
7
1
6
0
8
13
2,224
233
4,211
177
0
40
1,727
2,484
1,921
330
58
685
58
15
35
0
235
402
31,559
8,780
40,115
13,620
302
2,696
7,131
50,487
69,997
240
135
318
32
0
30
0
509
287
170
163
453
62
0
11
0
849
327
68
69
1,602
113
4
6
20
814
164
68
14
114
29
1
1
0
622
53
149
134
72
5
0
7
0
15
46
1,822
215
249
21
22
63
0
622
140
160
91
89
14
0
22
0
22
41
97
282
300
21
4
5
0
700
156
116
17
306
137
0
7
0
145
105
122
91
327
338
1
10
0
279
529
25
36
103
23
0
2
0
22
34
164
135
341
22
11
63
0
426
140
2,356
268
408
247
36
40
15
11,411
707
477
112
184
13
7
24
0
701
64
6,034
1,762
4,866
1,077
86
291
35
17,137
2,793
2,450
1,919
14,609
271
70
1,830
3,450
2,128
1,117
220
92
879
27
0
69
26
1,228
424 496
13
446
485
14
0
37
0
359
370
237
999
86
0
99
44
209
671
3,053
2,694
16,972
398
70
2,035
3,520
3,924
2,708
28
12
90
19
1
22
0
907
42
18
29
324
21
1
123
0
421
51
797
342
297
74
27
224
35
813
263
130
21
194
22
17
8
10
316
106
30
8
38
4
0
1
0
0
11
125
41
130
15
31
63
0
157
84
1,128
453
1,073
155
77
441
45
2,614
557
308
82
265
46
0
38
30
22
159
29
50
194
33
3
11
0
48
289
6
2
167
6
0
6
0
16
70
82
181
231
5
17
20
0
10
77
425
315
857
90
20
75
30
96
595
42,199
14,004
63,883
15,340
555
5,538
10,761
74,258
76,650
Country and Location
Turkey
Ukraine
United Kingdom
United States
Island (IF AVAILABLE)
US Virgin Islands
US Virgin Islands
US Virgin Islands
St. Croix
St. John
St. Thomas
Shoreline & Recreational Activities Bags (Paper)
1,384
6
699
78,417
778
32
1,822
Bags (Plastic)
2,430
31
8,440
229,758
1,902
274
3,965
68
0
1,744
38,181
308
4
67 3,571
Balloons Beverage Bottles (Plastic)
1,540
22
12,819
210,568
2,228
547
Beverage Bottles (Glass)
464
14
2,092
168,849
2,629
287
3,111
Beverage Cans
749
0
670
163,441
1,903
271
2,212
1,732
0
26,751
379,589
3,850
787
4,293
Caps, Lids Clothing, Shoes
152
2
3,723
46,634
788
124
876
Cups, Plates, Forks, Knives, Spoons
103
24
4,267
167,108
2,267
201
2,671
Food Wrappers/Containers
516
0
32,170
397,231
1,961
443
2,902
Pull Tabs
757
0
103
36,538
364
46
241
6-Pack Holders
323
0
478
10,995
84
7
90
6
0
1,692
19,060
381
5
30
320
0
6,963
155,659
848
267
2,968
78
2
1,656
41,278
306
26
254
10,622
101
104,267
2,143,306
20,597
3,321
29,073
14
0
689
19,880
93
10
33
132
0
1,180
7,152
162
67
190
Shotgun Shells/Wadding Straws, Stirrers Toys Total
Ocean/Waterway Activities Bait Containers/Packaging Bleach/Cleaner Bottles Buoys/Floats
16
0
621
12,844
77
79
109
Crab/Lobster/Fish Traps
11
0
44
5,285
45
3
31
Crates
13
0
616
2,347
37
8
46
Fishing Line
13
4
9,902
36,910
206
53
186
Fishing Lures/Light Sticks
6
0
326
11,059
54
2
18
Fishing Nets
16
0
19,504
5,539
238
43
114
Light Bulbs/Tubes
23
0
162
4,589
80
3
22
Oil/Lube Bottles
49
0
456
7,478
194
42
121
Pallets
1
0
108
1,637
56
5
83
Plastic Sheeting/Tarps
38
0
8
25,889
261
72
248
Rope
27
0
22,507
44,409
863
382
365
Strapping Bands
11
0
2,691
15,737
88
56
42
370
4
58,814
200,755
2,454
825
1,608
26,455
700
11,485
1,362,741
627
1,575
2,196
172
5
1,444
18,555
210
41
227 433
Total
Smoking-Related Activities Cigarettes/Cigarette Filters Cigarette Lighters Cigar Tips Tobacco Packaging/Wrappers Total
8
0
9
74,399
281
59
357
6
1,282
36,397
125
22
371
26,992
711
14,220
1,492,092
1,243
1,697
3,227
Dumping Activities Appliances (Refrigerators, Washers, etc.)
14
0
1,088
1,523
37
0
59
Batteries
98
0
8
5,715
45
1
33
112
0
2,713
58,448
306
28
339
54
0
280
8,258
196
6
246
2
0
52
499
9
0
2
Tires
48
0
322
8,243
216
45
62
Total
328
0
4,463
82,686
809
80
741
Condoms
10
0
240
7,136
174
18
328
Diapers
20
0
184
4,965
145
1
127
Syringes
12
0
241
2,387
14
0
8
Tampons/Tampon Applicators
11
0
3,079
12,528
8
3
42
Total
53
0
3,744
27,016
341
22
505
38,365
816
185,508
3,945,855
25,444
5,945
35,154
Building Materials Cars/Car Parts 55-Gallon Drums
Medical/Personal Hygiene
Marine Debris Item Totals
US Virgin Islands
Vanuatu
Venezuela
Vietnam
Country and Location Totals
Total
2,632
15
2,500
0
530,607
6,141
5
702
400
1,377,141
379
0
18
0
77,721
0
3,715
5
714,892
6,027
15
4,475
0
434,990
4,386
5
731
10
401,412
8,930
0
6,746
0
937,804 198,807
1,788
0
187
20
5,139
0
1,273
0
441,053
5,306
0
1,121
500
942,620
651
0
481
0
266,986
181
0
115
0
35,461
416
0
12
0
31,974
4,083
0
1,237
35
509,593
586
0
65
0
88,211
52,991
40
23,378
970
6,989,272
136
0
414
0
38,579
419
400
64
0
40,684
265
0
28
0
47,808
79
0
0
0
13,712
91
0
23
0
8,351
445
100
46
30
72,941
74
0
3
0
21,797
395
0
5
0
39,576
105
0
4
15
13,125
357
0
99
0
27,214
144
0
27
0
9,096
581
0
19
0
71,406
1,610
0
28
500
157,066
186
0
2
0
37,361
4,887
500
762
545
598,716
4,398
0
780
0
3,216,991
478
0
107
10
56,491 143,790
773
0
0
0
518
0
222
20
118,629
6,167
0
1,109
30
3,535,901
96
0
3
0
8,408
79
0
16
0
27,099
673
0
42
0
115,549
448
0
12
0
27,373
11
0
1
0
2,144
323
0
8
0
26,585
1,630
0
82
0
207,158
520
0
2
0
27,862
273
25
220
0
43,389
22
0
15
0
10,817
53
0
37
0
25,971
868
25
274
0
108,039
66,543
565
25,605
1,545
11,439,086
MARINE DEBRIS BREAKDOWN BY COUNTRIES AND LOCATIONS (And Islands IF AVAILABLE)
6,346
41
Land Country and Location
Island
Argentina
Miles
People
Total
Pounds
Miles
People
Pounds
Miles
1,243
11,968.9
7.0
-
-
-
1,243
11,968.9
7.0
112
1,432.3
1.6
32
224.5
0.3
144
1,656.8
1.9
Australia
426
6,920.3
23.8
310
4,762.0
8.4
736
11,682.3
32.2
3
2.2
2.4
40
1,060.4
4.1
43
1,062.6
6.5
519
6,450.0
28.5
3
20.0
0.3
522
6,470.0
28.8
859
38,900.0
6.3
150
9,000.0
2.0
1,009
47,900.0
8.3
1,378
45,350.0
34.8
153
9,020.0
2.3
1,531
54,370.0
37.1
Bahamas
Abaco Nassau Total
Bahrain
11
13.2
0.9
21
94.8
0.4
32
108.0
1.3
391
1,049.8
72.6
-
-
-
391
1,049.8
72.6
Barbados
60
3,991.5
1.8
16
230.0
0.1
76
4,221.5
1.9
Belgium
33
152.1
11.6
139
4,105.0
6.7
172
4,257.1
18.3
Belize
992
28,699.0
26.6
-
-
-
992
28,699.0
26.6
Bermuda
194
1,998.0
4.0
6
200.0
0.1
200
2,198.0
4.1
11,534
122,601.3
2,937.6
197
1,175.1
1.2
11,731
123,776.4
2,938.8
Bangladesh
Participation BY COUNTRIES AND LOCATIONS
Pounds
Aruba
Austria
Brazil British Virgin Islands
Cooper Island Tortola
7
20.0
-
16
30.0
-
23
50.0
-
223
5,706.0
5.6
-
-
-
223
5,706.0
5.6
22
1,000.0
1.0
-
-
-
22
1,000.0
1.0
252
6,726.0
6.6
16
30.0
-
268
6,756.0
6.6
33,919
306,648.9
1,734.5
401
8,776.7
6.0
34,320
315,425.6
1,740.5
6
500.0
0.1
22
200.0
0.1
28
700.0
0.2
Chile
3,279
138,655.7
68.3
17
628.3
0.6
3,296
139,284.0
68.9
China
1,134
2,775.8
1.7
29
50.7
0.1
1,163
2,826.5
1.8
362
2,848.4
1.9
62
1,378.1
37.9
424
4,226.5
39.8
60
1,102.3
0.9
21
440.9
0.3
81
1,543.2
1.2
426
5,608.4
6.6
4
44.1
0.3
430
5,652.5
6.9
Virgin Gorda Total Canada Cayman Islands
Colombia Cook Islands Costa Rica
Grand Cayman
Croatia
56
2,050.3
2.8
-
-
-
56
2,050.3
2.8
Cyprus
380
4,362.8
4.7
130
1,744.3
5.8
510
6,107.1
10.5
Denmark
-
-
0
19
152.1
1.8
19
152.1
1.8
Dominica
561
18,933.0
23.8
-
-
-
561
18,933.0
23.8
2,220
56,845.7
16.6
54
3,527.4
0.5
2,274
60,373.1
17.1
38
440.9
0.2
15
55.1
0.2
53
496.0
0.4
8,313
52,806.2
83.3
66
3,222.3
0.8
8,379
56,028.5
84.1
433
4,280.7
12.8
388
3,319.5
7.8
821
7,600.2
20.6
Dominican Republic East Timor Ecuador Egypt Estonia
55
3,720.5
2.6
50
3,704.6
0.6
105
7,425.1
3.2
Fiji
145
5,426.2
4.3
17
176.4
2.6
162
5,602.6
6.9
Finland
104
1,609.4
0.9
50
1,388.9
0.8
154
2,998.3
1.7
France
49
557.8
4.0
61
1,907.0
1.6
110
2,464.8
5.6
French Polynesia Germany
20
440.9
2.5
12
661.4
0.6
32
1,102.3
3.1
291
4,290.2
51.7
377
18,466.3
39.7
668
22,756.5
91.4
Ghana
200
200.0
0.5
-
-
-
200
200.0
0.5
Greece
2,155
28,761.9
33.7
165
6,541.9
4.1
2,320
35,303.8
37.8 16.9
Grenada
45
790.0
15.9
14
179.4
1.0
59
969.4
3,366
32,171.0
2.1
85
340.0
0.3
3,451
32,511.0
2.4
Guatemala
146
1,716.0
0.4
40
1,716.0
0.4
186
3,432.0
0.8
Guyana
104
1,485.0
2.0
-
-
-
104
1,485.0
2.0
41
1,525.0
0.7
10
200.0
0.2
51
1,725.0
0.9
2,892
28,735.3
34.5
7
44.1
1.9
2,899
28,779.4
36.4
45
1,763.7
0.2
20
220.5
0.1
65
1,984.2
0.3
6,132
21,953.4
247.6
15
41.9
0.6
6,147
21,995.3
248.2
Indonesia
287
2,410.5
4.3
78
200.6
2.4
365
2,611.1
6.7
Iran
115
1,132.6
4.4
45
1,224.8
3.4
160
2,357.4
7.8
96
639.3
0.6
-
-
-
96
639.3
0.6
1,627
47,178.9
15.1
54
1,278.7
2.4
1,681
48,457.6
17.5
543
8,115.2
18.3
365
5,584.3
11.1
908
13,699.5
29.4
1,787
23,207.1
23.3
25
1,379.2
0.7
1,812
24,586.3
24.0
13,516
68,387.5
44.5
371
17,727.5
5.8
13,887
86,115.0
50.3
Guam
Honduras Hong Kong Hungary India
Ireland Israel Italy Jamaica
42
Underwater
People
Japan Jordan
6
44.1
0.1
25
465.0
0.1
31
509.1
0.2
Kenya
5,959
30,911.0
219.3
-
-
-
5,959
30,911.0
219.3
Kuwait Malaysia
22
39.7
0.1
12
15.4
-
34
55.1
0.1
1,278
23,922.5
10.0
261
895.1
3.7
1,539
24,817.6
13.7
Land Country and Location
Island
Maldives
Underwater
People
Pounds
Miles
People
Total
Pounds
Miles
People
Pounds
Miles
142
1,388.9
10.8
247
4,455.5
10.7
389
5,844.4
21.5
Malta
57
630.1
1.8
96
3,046.3
1.9
153
3,676.4
3.7
Marshall Islands
21
80.0
-
18
20.0
-
39
100.0
-
Mauritius
12
308.7
0.6
12
308.7
0.6
24
617.4
1.2
9,235
138,765.7
87.4
308
3,648.1
12.1
9,543
142,413.8
99.5
95
1,027.4
4.4
7
11.0
0.3
102
1,038.4
4.7
Bonaire
62
1,680.0
1.1
39
150.0
0.2
101
1,830.0
1.3
Curacao
21
68.3
0.4
101
2,700.7
0.8
122
2,769.0
1.2
St. Eustatius
20
455.5
0.9
-
-
-
20
455.5
0.9 0.3
Mexico Mozambique Netherlands Antilles
St. Maarten
826
3,351.1
0.3
-
-
-
826
3,351.1
Total
929
5,555.0
2.7
140
2,850.7
1.0
1,069
8,405.7
3.7
43
1,479.3
11.6
170
2,918.9
11.0
213
4,398.2
22.6
Netherlands New Zealand
138
888.5
5.5
109
1,728.4
2.2
247
2,616.9
7.7
1,287
16,961.0
25.3
-
-
-
1,287
16,961.0
25.3
Nigeria
429
64,416.9
51.6
-
-
-
429
64,416.9
51.6
Northern Mariana Islands
312
559.0
0.5
-
-
-
312
559.0
0.5
86
1,455.1
7.9
47
1,422.0
5.4
133
2,877.1
13.3
Palau
85
2,000.0
3.0
-
-
-
85
2,000.0
3.0
Paraguay
60
4,257.1
0.1
-
-
-
60
4,257.1
0.1
37,238
616,050.8
311.3
490
5,891.6
6.6
37,728
621,942.4
317.9
336
11,367.0
9.0
141
4,541.5
622.6
477
15,908.5
631.6
45
2,491.2
4.0
108
3,507.6
3.4
153
5,998.8
7.4
8,521
197,330.5
170.7
116
3,405.0
4.9
8,637
200,735.5
175.6
Nicaragua
Oman
Philippines Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Republic of Korea Russia
560
3,086.5
0.6
80
176.4
0.1
640
3,262.9
0.7
5,954
527,200.2
27.3
135
6,721.9
0.2
6,089
533,922.1
27.5
192
96.9
0.2
-
-
-
192
96.9
0.2
Saudi Arabia
40
1,212.5
1.1
50
1,000.0
0.5
90
2,212.5
1.6
Seychelles
40
297.6
0.1
-
-
-
40
297.6
0.1
Singapore
2,448
21,119.0
10.4
-
-
-
2,448
21,119.0
10.4
Slovakia
5
66.1
0.1
12
44.1
0.1
17
110.2
0.2
Slovenia
14
110.2
0.2
44
1,190.5
0.3
58
1,300.7
0.5
Solomon Islands
23
275.6
1.7
-
-
-
23
275.6
1.7
6,772
20,771.5
55.4
231
1,550.7
1.3
7,003
22,322.2
56.7
Spain
341
4,014.6
32.3
276
4,929.0
16.3
617
8,943.6
48.6
Sri Lanka
632
6,787.4
-
-
-
-
632
6,787.4
-
9.2
17
52.1
0.8
152
2,861.4
10.0
South Africa
St. Kitts and Nevis
Nevis
135
2,809.3
St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Grenadines
289
4,636.5
9.6
-
-
-
289
4,636.5
9.6
29
125.7
2.5
30
782.6
0.4
59
908.3
2.9 21.4
Sweden Switzerland
76
1,142.0
11.1
227
8,430.5
10.3
303
9,572.5
Taiwan
60
66.1
0.3
60
485.0
0.3
120
551.1
0.6
Tanzania
99
1,446.2
0.9
-
-
-
99
1,446.2
0.9 25.2
Thailand Trinidad and Tobago
2,406
21,845.6
18.6
716
9,122.7
6.6
3,122
30,968.3
Trinidad
1,186
12,850.5
9.7
-
-
-
1,186
12,850.5
9.7
Tobago
282
3,994.4
7.6
38
92.7
2.6
320
4,087.1
10.2
1,468
16,844.9
17.3
38
92.7
2.6
1,506
16,937.6
19.9
1,710
8,096.1
20.6
42
3,886.1
1.0
1,752
11,982.2
21.6
7
123.5
0.1
10
94.8
0.1
17
218.3
0.2
87
-
1.8
60
-
8.0
147
-
9.8
5,684
44,413.7
114.3
146
765.9
1.2
5,830
45,179.6
115.5
Total Turkey Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States United States Virgin Islands
181,240
3,628,924.6
9,044.3
1,954
32,530.8
70.5
183,194
3,661,455.4
9,114.8
St. Croix
526
1,803.7
11.2
19
230.0
1.7
545
2,033.7
12.9
St. John
143
4,292.0
10.1
-
-
-
143
4,292.0
10.1
St. Thomas
706
12,272.0
19.9
-
-
-
706
12,272.0
19.9 42.9
1,375
18,367.7
41.2
19
230.0
1.7
1,394
18,597.7
Uruguay
-
-
-
31
13.2
-
31
13.2
-
Vanuatu
300
1,763.7
-
26
440.9
0.2
326
2,204.6
0.2
Venezuela
355
11,561.0
5.6
76
432.1
0.5
431
11,993.1
6.1
21
250.0
-
-
-
-
21
250.0
-
380,275 6,584,365.3
15,968.1
10,606
219,527.6
975.6
390,881 6,803,892.9
16,943.7
Total
Vietnam
Country and Location Totals Total Number of Countries and Locations: 104
Country and Location
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Shoreline & Recreational Activities Bags (Paper)
2,968
0
338
3
24,194
7
1,124
Bags (Plastic)
5,987
7
717
46
52,544
69
5,187
654
0
22
2
8,987
8
902 5,598
Balloons Beverage Bottles (Plastic)
9,343
0
1,272
15
24,282
34
Beverage Bottles (Glass)
6,990
32
1,088
23
31,774
39
3,161
Beverage Cans
8,359
32
1,509
148
23,090
18
3,413
Caps, Lids
8,000
0
1,116
20
83,069
53
7,869 1,082
Clothing, Shoes
1,413
9
187
13
12,185
22
Cups, Plates, Forks, Knives, Spoons
4,745
0
468
153
34,354
55
4,451
Food Wrappers/Containers
6,420
15
749
24
114,758
89
16,488
Pull Tabs
1,037
0
943
2
10,448
4
899
6-Pack Holders
750
0
31
2
1,780
2
123
Shotgun Shells/Wadding
437
0
23
0
5,590
17
287
Straws, Stirrers
2,162
0
330
2
33,170
17
3,316
Toys
1,384
14
50
14
10,558
4
1,091
60,649
109
8,843
467
470,783
438
54,991
Bait Containers/Packaging
519
0
45
1
2,961
6
560
Bleach/Cleaner Bottles
422
0
31
0
811
2
69
Buoys/Floats
543
2
9
0
1,583
4
574
Crab/Lobster/Fish Traps
128
2
0
0
358
0
38
Total
Ocean/Waterway Activities
Crates
113
1
9
0
532
3
42
Fishing Line
947
0
167
85
6,466
9
893
Fishing Lures/Light Sticks
433
3
117
13
1,385
0
180
Fishing Nets
188
3
14
0
739
0
71
Light Bulbs/Tubes
282
0
8
0
1,037
0
72
Oil/Lube Bottles
511
6
21
0
866
0
65
Pallets Plastic Sheeting/Tarps Rope Strapping Bands Total
51
0
1
0
428
0
12
894
0
15
1
5,715
5
395
1,484
8
38
3
5,968
7
450
506
0
22
2
3,838
2
189
7,021
25
497
105
32,687
38
3,610
17,938
20
2,179
117
340,221
43
26,948
597
3
23
0
4,709
5
473 1,287
Smoking-Related Activities Cigarettes/Cigarette Filters Cigarette Lighters Cigar Tips Tobacco Packaging/Wrappers Total
838
0
74
0
16,574
24
1,205
5
147
9
9,025
21
792
20,578
28
2,423
126
370,529
93
29,500
Dumping Activities Appliances (Refrigerators, Washers, etc.)
68
0
0
0
313
0
12
269
6
38
1
1,517
2
66
4,106
3
40
1
20,513
3
996
333
1
158
0
1,824
0
145
23
0
0
0
44
1
2
292
3
10
8
1,402
2
59
5,091
13
246
10
25,613
8
1,280
Condoms
213
0
3
1
2,032
1
332
Diapers
171
0
155
1
893
0
95
Syringes
49
0
4
0
706
0
70
Tampons/Tampon Applicators
114
0
21
3
1,132
2
226
Total
547
0
183
5
4,763
3
723
93,886
175
12,192
713
904,375
580
90,104
Batteries Building Materials Cars/Car Parts 55-Gallon Drums Tires Total
Medical/Personal Hygiene
Marine Debris Item Totals
Delaware
District of Columbia
Florida
Georgia
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Kansas
982
344
11,336
2
2,474
36
3,237
821
448
4,131
2,228
42,376
52
7,782
104
4,884
540
738
1,059
66
4,404
1
864
1
1,801
1,132
26
4,435
2,957
46,263
380
1,832
155
3,393
1,028
356
2,627
1,292
37,360
196
4,203
101
5,735
1,193
51
2,588
896
33,212
418
2,165
183
4,421
875
235
10,220
2,042
82,314
73
15,919
135
14,086
4,042
117
173
8,110
8
1,584
56
1,146
335
37
1,594
31,033
52
3,820
21
4,945
1,278
130
5,434
3,459
49,403
149
11,376
223
13,160
2,196
403
583
227
7,340
1
1,847
7
1,089
227
25
148
63
2,752
2
214
1
232
55
7
713
2
1,181
2
194
5
137
118
0
2,608
745
35,207
0
2,337
37
5,550
2,416
84
1,297
226
6,078
442
827
53
1,285
322
30
40,097
16,314
398,369
1,778
57,438
1,118
65,101
16,578
2,687
1,260
276
3,534
41
422
30
124
202
0
102
60
1,310
3
211
0
48
27
2
295
38
2,457
1
450
4
34
21
1
41
3
577
0
1,636
0
23
3
0
66
4
397
0
106
1
31
3
0
710
316
6,745
0
3,167
32
139
23
0
603
100
2,513
0
322
4
137
40
0
76
15
1,145
0
615
1
63
7
1
50
9
1,382
0
167
6
42
7
0
150
92
1,480
0
93
2
63
39
8
26
2
251
0
27
0
22
0
0
273
157
6,405
0
416
14
1,131
33
26
639
30
8,661
0
4,278
9
311
151
6
262
19
3,213
0
524
3
291
63
17
4,553
1,121
40,070
45
12,434
106
2,459
619
61
23,178
175,499
197,389
15
68,115
678
49,987
13,191
206
406
108
3,675
8
736
3
402
163
5
1,219
597
16,561
0
1,105
0
3,738
1,600
10
511
256
6,152
57
1,292
30
768
215
33
25,314
176,460
223,777
80
71,248
711
54,895
15,169
254
7
2
251
0
21
0
20
6
0
24
20
972
0
512
2
178
77
0
962
75
7,688
10
775
35
711
106
163
143
31
1,187
0
282
13
173
22
12
9
0
54
1
6
0
5
1
4
145
8
887
0
126
2
73
27
0
1,290
136
11,039
11
1,722
52
1,160
239
179
116
63
1,348
0
211
1
208
60
4 4
60
36
780
0
192
17
95
34
56
23
499
0
37
0
20
13
0
299
83
934
1
86
1
240
292
1
531
205
3,561
1
526
19
563
399
9
71,785
194,236
676,816
1,915
143,368
2,006
124,178
33,004
3,190
MARINE DEBRIS BREAKDOWN BY US States and District of Columbia
567 2,705
43
Country and Location
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Shoreline & Recreational Activities Bags (Paper)
1,577
800
903
1,425
1,995
702
2,175
Bags (Plastic)
2,308
2,023
1,568
9,391
5,601
1,373
6,174
171
313
833
1,990
3,010
180
464 5,605
MARINE DEBRIS BREAKDOWN BY US States and District of Columbia
Balloons Beverage Bottles (Plastic)
4,100
1,350
4,538
5,588
1,985
596
Beverage Bottles (Glass)
2,214
1,047
1,181
2,946
1,434
567
5,164
Beverage Cans
2,121
702
1,939
3,969
1,298
841
4,752
Caps, Lids
4,279
1,602
3,344
11,194
10,389
838
4,717
758
318
388
1,186
868
334
1,288
Cups, Plates, Forks, Knives, Spoons
Clothing, Shoes
2,501
1,128
1,504
4,594
3,754
638
2,815
Food Wrappers/Containers
3,396
3,482
2,659
13,292
14,087
3,698
5,412
Pull Tabs
673
208
255
599
769
94
495
6-Pack Holders
239
40
54
133
155
23
338
Shotgun Shells/Wadding
127
326
427
619
762
72
144
2,022
525
1,016
4,720
5,162
487
1,452
443
318
352
1,605
1,140
157
547
26,929
14,182
20,961
63,251
52,409
10,600
41,542
Bait Containers/Packaging
286
229
211
492
487
40
324
Bleach/Cleaner Bottles
179
161
101
376
70
14
344
Buoys/Floats
263
1,021
131
976
134
16
316
48
492
44
351
3
0
115
Straws, Stirrers Toys Total
Ocean/Waterway Activities
Crab/Lobster/Fish Traps Crates
36
54
14
77
14
0
109
Fishing Line
261
157
467
1,285
641
45
534
Fishing Lures/Light Sticks
131
66
169
397
216
22
165
74
136
14
802
39
10
168
Fishing Nets Light Bulbs/Tubes
154
20
41
53
52
6
202
Oil/Lube Bottles
180
159
220
149
58
20
374
Pallets
132
12
6
34
16
2
112
Plastic Sheeting/Tarps
302
505
110
606
812
480
657
Rope
466
2,966
302
4,388
565
41
826
Strapping Bands
191
712
137
942
360
51
287
2,703
6,690
1,967
10,928
3,467
747
4,533
3,953
10,466
3,264
37,683
60,624
11,479
13,432
226
102
249
545
334
138
269 1,052
Total
Smoking-Related Activities Cigarettes/Cigarette Filters Cigarette Lighters Cigar Tips
727
199
547
1,231
5,436
767
Tobacco Packaging/Wrappers
363
272
246
802
857
422
1,071
5,269
11,039
4,306
40,261
67,251
12,806
15,824
Total
Dumping Activities Appliances (Refrigerators, Washers, etc.)
27
5
5
6
9
5
73
131
45
41
83
45
23
105
2,638
1,471
203
907
870
493
3,454
194
124
25
172
103
84
358
55-Gallon Drums
18
8
7
3
8
1
38
Tires
49
72
62
65
32
25
235
3,057
1,725
343
1,236
1,067
631
4,263
76
32
12
160
125
54
117
Diapers
27
33
48
107
137
27
89
Syringes
43
8
43
75
40
19
15
Tampons/Tampon Applicators
79
60
114
1,063
480
54
66
225
133
217
1,405
782
154
287
38,183
33,769
27,794
117,081
124,976
24,938
66,449
Batteries Building Materials Cars/Car Parts
Total
Medical/Personal Hygiene Condoms
44
Total
Marine Debris Item Totals
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New York
North Carolina
Ohio
50
0
254
7
713
1,402
6,584
1,912
714
70
26
1,154
33
2,427
7,101
22,424
5,574
2,580
0
1
22
16
376
1,918
4,062
932
116
158
21
1,267
28
1,163
7,315
21,419
13,909
3,011
246
82
1,391
31
1,709
3,150
15,402
10,385
1,947
346
310
2,122
34
1,836
3,233
13,944
11,408
3,073
11
40
1,166
121
2,901
25,486
33,551
9,439
1,908
16
20
166
27
496
1,156
4,681
1,579
386
12
28
727
44
1,773
8,676
18,074
7,711
2,083
8
85
1,667
240
4,907
14,170
30,957
17,451
4,814
1
10
155
54
377
628
2,596
1,242
224
0
0
35
1
38
310
1,270
617
42
0
0
568
0
191
418
2,189
566
325
11
6
179
41
1,524
10,263
18,740
3,126
900
9
12
68
13
450
2,044
3,631
1,669
270
938
641
10,941
690
20,881
87,270
199,524
87,520
22,393
9
2
627
2
122
360
1,515
2,286
39
1
0
3
1
36
189
518
189
38
0
2
49
6
267
334
1,096
306
55
0
0
0
0
434
38
383
70
1
0
0
1
0
42
215
174
27
8
6
505
824
0
363
1,829
2,870
1,993
28
3
32
103
0
54
746
940
444
38
0
0
7
0
133
111
293
154
17 25
0
0
7
1
27
95
253
103
2
2
26
3
33
274
627
277
79
0
0
0
0
19
52
82
60
28
0
2
52
1
579
95
2,488
888
116 60
3
4
26
12
2,629
755
2,554
848
3
2
13
15
539
474
838
251
57
27
551
1,738
41
5,277
5,567
14,631
7,896
589
45
15
2,192
637
58,664
34,871
60,033
23,256
2,807
0
0
51
4
95
679
1,778
602
207
0
0
222
53
576
4,350
4,738
1,196
1,074
8
0
379
15
446
1,021
2,843
1,615
546
53
15
2,844
709
59,781
40,921
69,392
26,669
4,634
1
0
0
3
12
9
110
253
26
3
0
59
0
66
97
475
195
58
3
2
100
2
320
672
3,441
2,504
377
3
0
17
0
99
79
804
376
283
0
10
5
0
0
11
43
41
4
9
2
5
1
35
92
342
1,574
147
19
14
186
6
532
960
5,215
4,943
895
0
0
9
0
45
240
683
133
133
0
2
35
4
43
62
526
593
20
1
0
0
0
10
124
268
19
12
0
0
31
6
62
1,966
2,805
94
357
1
2
75
10
160
2,392
4,282
839
522
1,038
1,223
15,784
1,456
86,631
137,110
293,044
127,867
29,033
Country and Location
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
Tennessee
Texas
Shoreline & Recreational Activities Bags (Paper)
0
11
1,890
1,704
316
12
2,092
Bags (Plastic)
0
172
6,242
8,354
878
9
6,668
Balloons
1
22
691
1,629
44
0
620
Beverage Bottles (Plastic)
27
183
6,836
7,206
1,291
8
7,030
Beverage Bottles (Glass)
120
53
4,521
4,650
978
20
2,320
Beverage Cans
263
226
5,268
5,542
1,747
15
4,029
3
150
6,829
13,138
1,312
39
9,845
Caps, Lids
18
36
1,072
1,663
190
1
1,326
Cups, Plates, Forks, Knives, Spoons
Clothing, Shoes
6
67
3,400
5,428
1,578
8
3,993
Food Wrappers/Containers
0
109
15,207
14,490
1,244
28
3,790
Pull Tabs
1
26
574
787
176
17
1,106
6-Pack Holders
2
4
146
219
27
2
662
Shotgun Shells/Wadding
0
12
624
1,344
55
0
699
Straws, Stirrers
1
59
3,678
7,103
340
17
2,254
Toys
3
151
821
1,427
225
0
915
445
1,281
57,799
74,684
10,401
176
47,349
Total
Ocean/Waterway Activities Bait Containers/Packaging
0
28
740
741
73
8
478
Bleach/Cleaner Bottles
0
4
143
416
23
0
1,086
Buoys/Floats
1
12
101
699
178
0
532
Crab/Lobster/Fish Traps
0
1
8
341
2
0
85
Crates
0
1
38
51
14
0
129
Fishing Line
2
51
524
2,718
104
6
1,122
Fishing Lures/Light Sticks
7
2
216
594
93
0
546
Fishing Nets
0
1
67
198
10
0
285
Light Bulbs/Tubes
0
1
59
57
52
0
228
Oil/Lube Bottles
0
2
130
169
58
2
696
Pallets
0
1
28
59
10
0
140
Plastic Sheeting/Tarps
0
3
944
561
148
0
605
Rope
0
81
331
2,489
74
0
2,478
Strapping Bands
0
13
199
875
233
0
313
10
201
3,528
9,968
1,072
16
8,723
Total
Smoking-Related Activities Cigarettes/Cigarette Filters
0
869
31,784
47,905
6,320
47
3,316
Cigarette Lighters
0
9
307
605
49
2
552
Cigar Tips
0
9
3,632
2,142
107
0
370
Tobacco Packaging/Wrappers
0
42
1,107
1,214
67
18
399
Total
0
929
36,830
51,866
6,543
67
4,637
Dumping Activities Appliances (Refrigerators, Washers, etc.)
0
0
46
24
3
0
63
Batteries
0
10
184
77
27
0
98
Building Materials
0
34
839
1,186
195
0
1,345
Cars/Car Parts
0
0
421
180
31
0
184
55-Gallon Drums
0
0
31
8
5
0
42
Tires
0
6
946
90
94
0
129
Total
0
50
2,467
1,565
355
0
1,861
Condoms
0
0
137
175
7
0
222
Diapers
0
2
103
144
6
2
124
Syringes
0
0
29
79
4
0
73
Tampons/Tampon Applicators
0
6
384
848
20
0
336
Total
0
8
653
1,246
37
2
755
455
2,469
101,277
139,329
18,408
261
63,325
Medical/Personal Hygiene
Marine Debris Item Totals
Utah
Virginia
Washington
Wisconsin
Totals
0
2,332
106
427
78,417
6
9,273
239
698
229,758
0
590
2
249
38,181
13,499
240
820
210,568
10,571
276
544
168,849
60
11,838
204
759
163,441
20
5,695
135
2,362
379,589
20
1,476
33
205
46,634
3
5,966
91
702
167,108
20
15,231
99
2,342
397,231
1
675
6
110
36,538
1
434
0
41
10,995
0
279
10
597
19,060
2
2,603
19
1,428
155,659
0
975
110
248
41,278
200
81,437
1,570
11,532
2,143,306
2
742
6
50
19,880
0
156
0
6
7,152
0
239
7
87
12,844
0
48
8
4
5,285
0
28
2
5
2,347
11
811
1
53
36,910
1
187
3
34
11,059
0
68
2
12
5,539 4,589
0
86
3
2
0
531
4
7
7,478
0
18
5
1
1,637
0
360
22
73
25,889 44,409
0
359
58
51
0
237
5
39
15,737
14
3,870
126
424
200,755
19
17,607
271
15,458
1,362,741
0
336
12
88
18,555
0
1,117
4
1,223
74,399
0
1,728
47
351
36,397
19
20,788
334
17,120
1,492,092
0
140
1
2
1,523
0
166
21
22
5,715
0
1,036
107
62
58,448
0
365
9
23
8,258
0
65
0
1
499
0
1,156
3
28
8,243
0
2,928
141
138
82,686
0
118
2
63
7,136
0
271
0
27
4,965
0
39
0
9
2,387
0
163
8
91
12,528
0
591
10
190
27,016
233
109,614
2,181
29,404
3,945,855
MARINE DEBRIS BREAKDOWN BY US States and District of Columbia
32 35
45
Land US States
Miles
People
Pounds
Miles
People
Pounds
Miles
3,925
80,374.7
287.8
-
-
-
3,925
80,374.7
287.8
2
40.0
1.0
6
60.0
-
8
100.0
1.0
231
5,025.0
28.2
321
1,585.0
3.4
552
6,610.0
31.6
Arkansas
8
30.0
1.4
35
170.0
1.5
43
200.0
2.9
California
73,553
1,664,501.2
2,860.0
138
1,605.0
4.3
73,691
1,666,106.2
2,864.3
Colorado
94
1,144.0
-
2
10.0
-
96
1,154.0
-
Connecticut
1,654
13,143.0
58.7
54
544.0
2.2
1,708
13,687.0
60.9
Delaware
1,357
21,736.5
64.0
-
-
-
1,357
21,736.5
64.0
308
6,678.0
8.5
-
-
-
308
6,678.0
8.5
32,437
409,116.2
1,928.9
259
7,163.0
37.4
32,696
416,279.2
1,966.3
28
56.0
3.3
-
-
-
28
56.0
3.3
2,392
22,481.1
79.1
109
3,655.0
2.3
2,501
26,136.1
81.4
705
1,630.0
40.3
58
650.0
0.8
763
2,280.0
41.1
3,094
10,403.0
38.2
133
1,032.0
1.1
3,227
11,435.0
39.3
Indiana
611
6,927.0
15.2
24
20.0
0.2
635
6,947.0
15.4
Kansas
42
1,310.0
1.0
-
-
-
42
1,310.0
1.0
Louisiana
1,637
22,900.0
71.1
-
-
-
1,637
22,900.0
71.1
Maine
1,638
13,559.5
105.2
-
-
-
1,638
13,559.5
105.2
535
7,454.0
20.4
-
-
-
535
7,454.0
20.4
Massachusetts
3,066
22,299.5
139.2
11
60.0
0.5
3,077
22,359.5
139.7
Michigan
2,445
7,878.9
116.4
27
415.8
0.7
2,472
8,294.7
117.1
510
3,784.1
24.1
30
306.0
0.7
540
4,090.1
24.8
Alaska
Arizona
Participation BY US States and District of Columbia
Total
Pounds
Alabama
District of Columbia
Florida
Georgia
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
Maryland
46
Underwater
People
Minnesota
Land
Underwater
Total
US States
People
Pounds
Miles
People
Pounds
Miles
People
Pounds
Miles
Mississippi
2,328
45,855.0
169.0
-
-
-
2,328
45,855.0
169.0
Missouri
24
501.0
0.2
36
360.0
-
60
861.0
0.2
Montana
10
70.0
0.0
30
410.0
0.1
40
480.0
0.1
526
7,156.0
89.8
10
500.0
0.2
536
7,656.0
90.0
29
540.0
7.6
15
150.0
0.1
44
690.0
7.7
New Hampshire
1,547
6,635.3
23.9
10
1,000.0
0.5
1,557
7,635.3
24.4
New Jersey
5,821
39,988.5
147.2
51
801.0
0.6
5,872
40,789.5
147.8
New York
6,428
81,876.9
302.4
66
1,090.0
2.1
6,494
82,966.9
304.5
18,256
527,278.0
1,560.0
74
748.0
1.1
18,330
528,026.0
1,561.1
908
11,576.0
54.0
136
1,872.0
1.0
1,044
13,448.0
55.0
5
200.0
2.0
5
800.0
1.0
10
1,000.0
3.0
94
1,402.0
107.1
23
114.0
0.1
117
1,516.0
107.2
Pennsylvania
2,562
91,388.0
107.3
100
4,940.0
3.8
2,662
96,328.0
111.1
Rhode Island
1,799
12,796.0
83.5
70
825.0
0.5
1,869
13,621.0
84.0
South Carolina
598
8,453.0
34.7
7
8.0
-
605
8,461.0
34.7
Tennessee
111
5,038.0
0.3
4
50.0
0.1
115
5,088.0
0.4
3,558
208,795.0
77.2
15
230.0
0.8
3,573
209,025.0
78.0
9
175.2
1.2
15
235.0
1.0
24
410.2
2.2
5,710
254,046.0
364.9
-
-
-
5,710
254,046.0
364.9
81
810.0
11.2
27
675.0
0.8
108
1,485.0
12.0
564
1,873.0
8.8
53
447.0
1.6
617
2,320.0
10.4
181,240
3,628,924.6
9,044.3
1,954
32,530.8
70.5
183,194
3,661,455.4
9,114.8
Nebraska
Nevada
North Carolina
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Texas
Utah
Virginia
Washington
Wisconsin
US State and District of Columbia Totals
Total Number of US States and District of Columbia: 43
2009 Report
Terminology Below are the definition of terms used throughout the report: The Symbol (-) in a Chart This data was not collected. The Number 0 in a chart The quantity of the data collected was equal to zero. Coastal Cleanup This type of Cleanup site borders the ocean. Inland Cleanup This type of Cleanup site borders waterways that are located inland such as rivers, lakes, streams, and ponds. It is not located on the ocean. Land Cleanup A Cleanup that was conducted on a beach or waterway. Underwater Cleanup A Cleanup that was conducted underwater by certified divers.
Watercraft Cleanup A Cleanup that was conducted offshore by watercraft which includes kayaks, canoes, sail boats, and motor boats. People or Volunteers The number of people or volunteers at a Cleanup site are counted by the coordinator, totaled for each country, location, or US state, and sent to Ocean Conservancy. Pounds Volunteers weigh trash collected when possible. On average, a bag of trash weighs 15 pounds, an estimate which is used by coordinators and Ocean Conservancy staff to estimate weight if scales are not available. Miles The number of miles cleaned is estimated from the starting point to the end point at each Cleanup site. The distance for a Cleanup site is not the sum of all distances covered by each individual volunteer.
Ten Things You Can Do to Stop Marine Debris
1
Volunteer for Ocean Conservancy’s International Coastal Cleanup held every September. Go to www.coastalcleanup.org.
2 3
Put trash in a secure, lidded receptacle—most marine debris starts out on land.
Properly recycle everything you can: batteries, cans, bottles and food containers, newspapers, cell phones, computers, bags, packaging materials, fishing line. Contact your local waste hauler or county solid waste office to discover your recycling options.
4
When boating, bring your oil cans, food wrappers, and cigarette butts back to shore, and be sure to ask your marina to handle waste properly (check out Ocean Conservancy’s Good Mate manual for helpful tips at www.coastalcleanup.org).
5
Less is more: Don’t buy stuff you don’t need that will just end up as trash. When you do make purchases, choose items that use less packaging.
6
Start conversations that inform and inspire your friends and co-workers to help stop marine debris at the source.
7
Bring along your own permanent food containers for picnics instead of using disposables. Remember to take your own reusable bags whenever you go shopping.
8
Write to companies or visit local shops and restaurants and encourage them to reuse, recycle, and generate less packaging.
9 10
Put cigarette butts in ashtrays, not on streets, sidewalks, or beaches. Write to your elected officials and encourage them to support policies that protect our ocean.
47
International Coastal Cleanup
Acknowledgments Director, International Coastal Cleanup Dianne Sherman, Executive Editor Associate Director, International Coastal Cleanup Sonya Besteiro Managing Editor/Writer Catherine C. Fox Research Coordinator Kate Sherman
Principal Advisors Laura Burton Capps Vicki Cornish Dennis Heinemann Dennis Takahashi-Kelso Contributors Michele Capots Dove Coggeshall Raychelle Daniel Isabel Dunkin DeAndra Hicks Bethany Latham
Kelly Luck James Mathieson Tom McCann Adam Mistler Amelia Montjoy Andrew Myers Seba Sheavly Matt Tinning Photo Editor Lori Murphy Design fuszion
Photo Credits Cover Seal © Yva Momatiuk & John Eastcott/Minden Pictures
Page 2 Vikki Spruill © Rachel’s Network
Page 3 Philippe Cousteau © Animal Planet
Page 12 Bag © Veer Picnic © Purestock Gutter © Veer Sign © Veer Tugboat © Don Spiro/Getty Images Turtle © Norbert Wu
Page 13 Birds © NOAA
Special Thanks Lead Sponsoring Partner The Coca-Cola Company Blue Planet Partner Bank of America
Page 14
River and Streams Sponsors RecycleBank US Environmental Protection Agency United Nations Environment Programme
Living Waters Partners Brunswick Public Foundation David and Lucile Packard Foundation The Dow Chemical Company National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Glad Philip Morris USA, an Altria Company
Lakes & Marshes Sponsors Endangered Species Chocolate Florida Power & Light Company Google Publix Super Markets Charities The S. D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation Sea World Busch Gardens Conservation Fund Walt Disney World Wolverine World Wide
Healthy Bays Sponsor Oracle
Nongovernmental Organization Partner Project AWARE
Dolphins © Digital Vision
Page 16 Monk Seal © NOAA Fisheries, Hawaiian Monk Seal Research Program
Page 17 Turtle © Alejandro Fallabrino
Page 18 Polar Bear © Photo Disc
Page 21 Map © NOAA
For more information or to sign up as a volunteer for the next International Coastal Cleanup visit www.coastalcleanup.org.
48
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“Long-Term Region-Wide Declines in Caribbean Corals.” Toby A. Gardner, et al. Science 301, 958 (2003). McDermid, K.J. and T.L. McMullen. 2004. Quantitative analysis of small-plastic debris on beaches in the Hawaiian archipelago. Marine Pollution Bulletin, 48(7-8):790-794. “Municipal Solid Waste in the United States: 2007 Facts and Figures.” US Environmental Protection Agency Office of Solid Waste, November 2008. Myers, Andy. “What Comes Around: Breaking the Cycle of Plastics in the Ocean.” Ocean Conservancy, Autumn 2007. National Research Council (2008) “Tackling Marine Debris in the 21st Century.” Committee on the Effectiveness of National and International Measures to Prevent and Reduce Marine Debris and Its Impacts. Nellemann, C., Hain, S., and Alder, J. (Eds). February 2008. “In Dead Water – Merging of climate change with pollution, over-harvest, and infestations in the world’s fishing grounds.” United Nations Environment Programme, GRID-Arendal, Norway, www.grida.no O’Hara, K.J., S. Ludicello, and R. Bierce. A Citizen’s Guide to Plastics in the Ocean: More than a Litter Problem. Washington, DC: Center for Marine Conservation, 1988. Ryan, P.G. 2008. Seabirds indicate changes in the composition of plastic litter in the Atlantic and south-western Indian Oceans. Marine Pollution Bulletin, 56(8): 1406-1409. Schreiber, Allan. “Dead Sperm Whale Washes Ashore.” Upwelling. Farallones Marine Sanctuary Association, April 2008. Skumatz, L. et al. “Pay as You Throw in the US: 2006 Update and Analysis: Final Report.” Prepared for US Environmental Protection Agency and SERA by Skumatz Economic Research Associates, Superior, Colorado, December 2006.
Sheavly, S.B. 2007. “National Marine Debris Monitoring Program: Final Program Report, Data Analysis and Summary.” Prepared for US Environmental Protection Agency by Ocean Conservancy, Grant Number X83053401-02. 76 pp. Stamper, Andrew. “Case study: Morbidity in Pygmy Sperm Whale Kogia breviceps due to Ocean-Bourne Plastic.” Marine Mammal Science 22(3) (July 2006):719-722. van Franeket, J.A., A. Meijboom, M.L. de Jong. “Marine litter monitoring by Northern Fulmars in the Netherlands 1982-2003” Alterra, 1093, Wageningen. Waddell, J.E. and A.M. Clarke (eds.), 2008. The State of Coral Reef Ecosystems of the United States and Pacific Freely Associated States: 2008. NOAA Technical Memorandum NOS NCCOS 73. NOAA/NCCOS Center for Coastal Monitoring and Assessment’s Biogeography Team. Silver Spring, MD. 569 pp. UNEP-CAR/RCU, 2008. Marine Litter in the Wider Caribbean Region: A Regional Overview. United Nations Environment Programme. 81 pp. Wells. R.S., J.B. Allen, S. Hofman, K. Bassos-Hull, D.A. Fauquier, N.B. Barros, R.E. DeLynn, G. Sutton, V. Socha, and M.D. Scott. 2008. “Consequences of Injuries on Survival and Reproduction of Common Bottlenose Dolphins (Torsiops truncates) along the West Coast of Florida.” Marine Mammal Science 24(4): 774-494. Wilkinson, C., Souter, D. (2008). “Status of Caribbean coral reefs after bleaching and hurricanes in 2005.” Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network, and Reef and Rainforest Research Centre, Townsville, 152 p. Zabin, C.J., J.T. Carlton, and L.S. Goodwin. 2004. “First report of the Asian sea anemone Diadumene lineata from the Hawaiian Islands.” Bishop Museum Occasional Papers, 79:54-58.
Each year, Ocean Conservancy—in partnership with a network of volunteer organizations and individuals— provides a compelling global snapshot of marine debris collected in and around the ocean and inland waterways all over the world on the third Saturday in September. This year’s report, A Rising Tide of Ocean Debris, presents data recorded by nearly 400,000 volunteers in 104 countries and locations and 42 states and the District of Columbia in the US who rolled up their sleeves and got to work during Ocean Conservancy’s 23rd annual International Coastal Cleanup. In addition to providing the Marine Debris Index—state-by-state and country-by-country data about the 6.8 million pounds of trash picked up—this report reveals the sources of debris, from cigarette butts and fast-food wrappers to syringes and old fishing line, and zeroes in on the deadly effects of marine debris on marine wildlife. It also identifies the connection between the stress caused by marine debris and the ability of the ocean and its critical-life support systems to adapt to the onset of global climate change. Recommendations provide a roadmap for eliminating marine debris altogether by reducing it at the source, changing the behaviors that cause it, and supporting better policy. Humans have created the marine debris problem, and humans must take responsibility for it. The comprehensive body of data compiled during the Cleanup in the course of its 23-year history continues to inform and inspire action. Working together, citizens and environmentalists, our top corporations, and government leaders can take effective action to eliminate the scourge of trash in the ocean. The future of the planet and the well-being of present and future generations are counting on it.
For More Information on Ocean Conservancy’s International Coastal Cleanup please contact: Ocean Conservancy 1300 19th Street, NW | 8th Floor | Washington, DC 20036 | USA | 202.429.5609
www.oceanconservancy.org
